What do you think?
Rate this book
Mackinnon-Douglas #2
The Return of Black Douglas
He'll help a woman in need, no matter where she came from...
Alysandir Mackinnon rules his clan with a fair but iron fist. He has no time for softness or, as he sees it, weakness. But when he encounters a bewitching young beauty who may or may not be a dangerous spy, but is surely in mortal danger, he's compelled to help.
She's always wondered if she was born in the wrong time...
Thrown back in time to the tumultuous, dangerous Scottish Highlands of the sixteenth century, Isobella Douglas has a lot to learn about her ancestors, herself, and her place in the world. Especially when she encounters a Highland laird who puts modern men to shame.
Each one has secrets to keep, until they begin to strike a chord in each other's hearts that's never been touched before.
Praise for Elaine Coffman:
"With an eloquent pen, Ms. Coffman weaves words into a tapestry." -RT Book Reviews
"Elaine Coffman touches the heart while making her readers laugh and cry." -Atlanta Journal
"Coffman's writing is deft, capable, and evocative." -Publishers Weekly
Alysandir Mackinnon rules his clan with a fair but iron fist. He has no time for softness or, as he sees it, weakness. But when he encounters a bewitching young beauty who may or may not be a dangerous spy, but is surely in mortal danger, he's compelled to help.
She's always wondered if she was born in the wrong time...
Thrown back in time to the tumultuous, dangerous Scottish Highlands of the sixteenth century, Isobella Douglas has a lot to learn about her ancestors, herself, and her place in the world. Especially when she encounters a Highland laird who puts modern men to shame.
Each one has secrets to keep, until they begin to strike a chord in each other's hearts that's never been touched before.
Praise for Elaine Coffman:
"With an eloquent pen, Ms. Coffman weaves words into a tapestry." -RT Book Reviews
"Elaine Coffman touches the heart while making her readers laugh and cry." -Atlanta Journal
"Coffman's writing is deft, capable, and evocative." -Publishers Weekly
415 pages, Paperback
First published February 14, 2011
30 people are currently reading
560 people want to read
About the author
Elaine Coffman
63 books117 followersBarbara Elaine Gunter was born in San Diego, California, to William Samuel Gunter, Jr., a naval officer and Edna Marie (née Davidson) Gunter, a homemaker. From the age of three she lived in Midland, Texas and graduated from Midland High School. After she received a degree in elementary education from North Texas State University, she taught elementary school in Midland, Texas, while working on her Master’s Degree and certification for Language and Learning Disabilities at Texas Tech in Lubbock.
Elaine currently resides in Austin, Texas, where her son, Chuck, also lives. She has two daughters, Lesley who resides in Raleigh, N.C. and Ashley, who lives in San Diego, California.
Elaine Coffman is a New York Times bestselling author with a large international following. She has penned novels in both the historical romance genre and suspense. A lover of history, she has penned several novels set in Scotland, Regency England, Italy and the American West. To date, she is the author of nineteen novels and five novellas.
While writing her first novel, My Enemy, My Love, she found herself inspired by a letter her great-great grandmother, Susannah Jane Dowell Shacklett wrote in 1920, telling about her journey from Brandeburg, Kentucky to San Antonio, Texas, and then going with an army escort to El Paso, Texas, where her brother, Ben Dowell, a veteran of the Mexican War, was El Paso's first mayor.
Elaine continued to write best-selling, award-winning books until the publication of her eleventh novel, If You Loved Me, which was the last book of her beloved Mackinnon series and her first book to hit the New York Times bestseller list.
Her first suspense novel, Alone in the Dark, was published by Pocket books in 2006.
Elaine currently resides in Austin, Texas, where her son, Chuck, also lives. She has two daughters, Lesley who resides in Raleigh, N.C. and Ashley, who lives in San Diego, California.
Elaine Coffman is a New York Times bestselling author with a large international following. She has penned novels in both the historical romance genre and suspense. A lover of history, she has penned several novels set in Scotland, Regency England, Italy and the American West. To date, she is the author of nineteen novels and five novellas.
While writing her first novel, My Enemy, My Love, she found herself inspired by a letter her great-great grandmother, Susannah Jane Dowell Shacklett wrote in 1920, telling about her journey from Brandeburg, Kentucky to San Antonio, Texas, and then going with an army escort to El Paso, Texas, where her brother, Ben Dowell, a veteran of the Mexican War, was El Paso's first mayor.
Elaine continued to write best-selling, award-winning books until the publication of her eleventh novel, If You Loved Me, which was the last book of her beloved Mackinnon series and her first book to hit the New York Times bestseller list.
Her first suspense novel, Alone in the Dark, was published by Pocket books in 2006.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 23, 2011
A matchmaking ghost, time travel and Highland hunks. What more can you ask for in a romance?
Welcome to Elaine Coffman's THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS.
Archaeologist Isobella Douglas lives in the wrong century. She needs a Mr. Darcy, especially after her rat of a fiancé elopes with his dance instructor a week before their wedding. So, Isobella and her twin sister, Elisabeth, visit the Scotland of their heritage. At Beloyn Castle, one of the ancient Douglas strongholds, they view a portrait of their ancestor, The Black Douglas. Wouldn't it be nice to have a man like that?
Be careful what you wish for…
The ghost of The Black Douglas catapults Isobella and Elisabeth back to 1515 Scotland. After dumping them into the middle of a battle between the Mackinnons and the Macleans, the meddlesome spirit abandons them. The Macleans take Elisabeth, but the Mackinnon chieftain, Alysandir, saves Isobella. Although a warrior, Alysandir is kind and understanding to the disoriented Isobella. A fierce attraction rapidly develops between them, but Alysandir mistrusts her. Where did she come from? Is she a spy? And he doesn't want to marry and Isobella does.
In order to succeed, time travels need to juxtapose the past and present in a believable manner. Ms. Coffman has the task down pat. Alysandir, while every inch the Highland warrior chief, is also kind and caring, a man for any woman's dreams. Twenty-first century Isobella has just enough of the traditional to fit into historic Scotland while retaining her modern spunk. While mainly serious, THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS also contains plenty of comic relief to lighten the darker moments. And there are lots and lots of hunky men in kilts to please the most rabid Scottish historical fan.
A wonderful journey to the Scotland of the past with a hero to die for and a heroine who matches him--THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS has it all.
ARC provided by Sourcebooks
Welcome to Elaine Coffman's THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS.
Archaeologist Isobella Douglas lives in the wrong century. She needs a Mr. Darcy, especially after her rat of a fiancé elopes with his dance instructor a week before their wedding. So, Isobella and her twin sister, Elisabeth, visit the Scotland of their heritage. At Beloyn Castle, one of the ancient Douglas strongholds, they view a portrait of their ancestor, The Black Douglas. Wouldn't it be nice to have a man like that?
Be careful what you wish for…
The ghost of The Black Douglas catapults Isobella and Elisabeth back to 1515 Scotland. After dumping them into the middle of a battle between the Mackinnons and the Macleans, the meddlesome spirit abandons them. The Macleans take Elisabeth, but the Mackinnon chieftain, Alysandir, saves Isobella. Although a warrior, Alysandir is kind and understanding to the disoriented Isobella. A fierce attraction rapidly develops between them, but Alysandir mistrusts her. Where did she come from? Is she a spy? And he doesn't want to marry and Isobella does.
In order to succeed, time travels need to juxtapose the past and present in a believable manner. Ms. Coffman has the task down pat. Alysandir, while every inch the Highland warrior chief, is also kind and caring, a man for any woman's dreams. Twenty-first century Isobella has just enough of the traditional to fit into historic Scotland while retaining her modern spunk. While mainly serious, THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS also contains plenty of comic relief to lighten the darker moments. And there are lots and lots of hunky men in kilts to please the most rabid Scottish historical fan.
A wonderful journey to the Scotland of the past with a hero to die for and a heroine who matches him--THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS has it all.
ARC provided by Sourcebooks
April 24, 2011
Elaine Coffman has a gift for creating characters that are immensely likable even when you don't particularly like them at first. She adds a lot of depth to the people she brings to life in her stories. This book was definitely no exception.
I loved Isobella. She has what I would consider a dream occupation of an archaeologist. When she is transported back into the 16th century by the ghost of her meddling ancestor, the Black Douglas, she is in her element. She immediately finds a cave and starts preserving artifacts that she finds. She is quite a handful for the handsome laird who has her "captive". He's not sure that Isobella is completely sane at times.
Alysandir is a bit of a stick in the mud in the beginning. While he does have a ton of responsibility on his shoulders, he needs a good kick in the pants to loosen up. Isobella seems to be just the person to shake him up and rock his world - in many ways. The chemistry between them is explosive. There was humor in the story, usually at Isobella's klutzy ways or at Alysandir's dry demeanor. The story was not light and fluffy though. A few darker elements were introduced that cast a shadow on their attraction and romance.
I did have a little problem with the dialogue between Isobella and Alysandir in the beginning of the story as it came across a bit stilted. It didn't flow quite as well as I'm used to reading from the author. Their conversation did improve as the story progressed though and it didn't detract from the overall storyline.
The end of the book had me really tearing up and sniffling, but in a very good way. Throughout the tale I kept wondering how on earth Ms. Coffman would be able to give the reader a satisfactory conclusion. She succeeded well beyond my expectations. The wrap up was perfect with the exact details I was wanting and needing to be able to leave the story completely fulfilled and happy.
Readers who enjoy historical romance, time travel, yummy men in kilts, strong women out of their element, the men who love them and a just plain great story, will enjoy this book.
I loved Isobella. She has what I would consider a dream occupation of an archaeologist. When she is transported back into the 16th century by the ghost of her meddling ancestor, the Black Douglas, she is in her element. She immediately finds a cave and starts preserving artifacts that she finds. She is quite a handful for the handsome laird who has her "captive". He's not sure that Isobella is completely sane at times.
Alysandir is a bit of a stick in the mud in the beginning. While he does have a ton of responsibility on his shoulders, he needs a good kick in the pants to loosen up. Isobella seems to be just the person to shake him up and rock his world - in many ways. The chemistry between them is explosive. There was humor in the story, usually at Isobella's klutzy ways or at Alysandir's dry demeanor. The story was not light and fluffy though. A few darker elements were introduced that cast a shadow on their attraction and romance.
I did have a little problem with the dialogue between Isobella and Alysandir in the beginning of the story as it came across a bit stilted. It didn't flow quite as well as I'm used to reading from the author. Their conversation did improve as the story progressed though and it didn't detract from the overall storyline.
The end of the book had me really tearing up and sniffling, but in a very good way. Throughout the tale I kept wondering how on earth Ms. Coffman would be able to give the reader a satisfactory conclusion. She succeeded well beyond my expectations. The wrap up was perfect with the exact details I was wanting and needing to be able to leave the story completely fulfilled and happy.
Readers who enjoy historical romance, time travel, yummy men in kilts, strong women out of their element, the men who love them and a just plain great story, will enjoy this book.
July 24, 2011
just got this cheap On my kobobooks site for my Kobo ... (hey and some of the besat books are free or cheap!) and i have to say the cover made me drool .. like OMG hot half naked scottish buff guy whats NOT to love about that
wow just finished last night and wow loved it .. loved the story and the romance and the storyline and the tensions ....... and it wasnt just guy getting her into bed and then just sex all the time
:)
loved how they did an epilougue too about what happenend in future it was an awwwwwwwww moment :) would def recommend to anyone that loved a good romance (or a hot scot!)
wow just finished last night and wow loved it .. loved the story and the romance and the storyline and the tensions ....... and it wasnt just guy getting her into bed and then just sex all the time
:)
loved how they did an epilougue too about what happenend in future it was an awwwwwwwww moment :) would def recommend to anyone that loved a good romance (or a hot scot!)
August 13, 2014
2.5 stars
It had good potential but in the end it was rushed. Too many good parts were left unpolished. I felt like in the end, the author tried to hurry the story by brushing over parts I would liked more story line on to get to the end.
Isobella was a bit selfish and Alysandir was too stubborn and fool headed. I liked the ghost of Black Douglas and liked the epilogue. Usually when one travels back in time, we never hear about the family they left in the future. This gives the twins parents good closure as well as the reader. Though it does spoil book 3.
It had good potential but in the end it was rushed. Too many good parts were left unpolished. I felt like in the end, the author tried to hurry the story by brushing over parts I would liked more story line on to get to the end.
Isobella was a bit selfish and Alysandir was too stubborn and fool headed. I liked the ghost of Black Douglas and liked the epilogue. Usually when one travels back in time, we never hear about the family they left in the future. This gives the twins parents good closure as well as the reader. Though it does spoil book 3.
July 22, 2016
When Texas twins Isobella and Elisabeth are whisked 500 years back in time by a meddling family ghost, Alysandir MacKinnon is shocked to see them appear out of thin air in the middle of a battle with his enemies. Alysandir is able to rescue Isobella but not her sister who is captured by the MacLeans. This is the story of hard-hearted Alysandir and stubborn Isobella trying to co-exist in this Medieval time. For the most part I really liked Isobella though she did have her moments where I wanted to slap her silly. Alysandir was a hunky Scot (one of my favorite hero types) who had been hurt in the past by a woman who left him. He has vowed to never marry again and though he comes to love Isobella, he refuses to marry her. This, of course, is the cause of many problems between them.
All in all a terrific romance though it did have it's moments of unbelievability (especially the whole iphone scene). I found the ghost of Black Douglas to be rather irritating at times but enigmatic as well. I look forward to reading of Elisabeth's adventures especially being that her hero is a man who did not appear in this book. hmmm
All in all a terrific romance though it did have it's moments of unbelievability (especially the whole iphone scene). I found the ghost of Black Douglas to be rather irritating at times but enigmatic as well. I look forward to reading of Elisabeth's adventures especially being that her hero is a man who did not appear in this book. hmmm
March 30, 2012
Most of Elaine Coffman’s books are out of print and I can’t get my hand on her previous writing. To cure my disappointed, I bought this book and its time travel!!!!
Highlander, time travel and match-matching ghost, I truly loved it! This was a pretty good story. The romance between Isobella and Alysandir was sweet and he’s one of those men you wish you could have. I can’t wait for next story about Elisabeth.
ps: oh forget to tell you that the epilogue was THE best part out of the whole story.
Highlander, time travel and match-matching ghost, I truly loved it! This was a pretty good story. The romance between Isobella and Alysandir was sweet and he’s one of those men you wish you could have. I can’t wait for next story about Elisabeth.
ps: oh forget to tell you that the epilogue was THE best part out of the whole story.
November 13, 2011
Isobella ( medieval scholar and anthropologist) and her twin Elizabeth( about to become a Doctor) get sent back in time by the ghost of Black Douglas. He keeps telling Isobella that "tis your fate."
They land in the middle of a field during a battle in the 1500's. Elizabeth gets hauled off by one clan and Isobella the other.
Through everything....Isobella gets her HEA with her hero.
They land in the middle of a field during a battle in the 1500's. Elizabeth gets hauled off by one clan and Isobella the other.
Through everything....Isobella gets her HEA with her hero.
April 12, 2011
The Return Of Black Douglas
Elaine Coffman
Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
Rating: Four Stars
What I liked about this book:
Aside from it being well written is the fact the author actually took the time to give us a flavor of Scotland in the 1500’s. It’s a time fraught with clan rivalries, skirmishes with England, and is a wild and dangerous land. The author keeps to the history of the time, including it’s a male dominated time period with very set roles for men, women, gentry, and the lower classes.
Problematic parts handled well:
Time travel can be a tricky, but a fun story premise provided it’s done correctly. Ms. Coffman does it correctly. She keeps the reactions of the characters true to their time as well. First off, time travel would be a hard pill to swallow in today’s world, much less in the 1500’s where anything unusual is considered the work of the devil and witchcraft. Lest you forget your history, any form of witchcraft was greeted with a nice toasty fire, a stake, and death.
Second, languages have changed considerably from the 1500’s to today. Even three hundred years ago, Gaelic and English, written and spoken would be hard to understand even if either were your natural tongue, but almost five hundred years ago? So Ms. Coffman’s use of background on her main character, Isobella, as an archeologist who has studied the old languages is a smart move and helps facilitate a realistic story. I did have a wee bit of a problem with Elizabeth’s apparent ease in understanding the same form of Gaelic.
All that aside, the story is fun. I have to admit a fondness for the capricious ghost of Black Douglas and his desire to mettle in his modern family’s love lives. The hint we get of rules he has to obey as a ghost. Isobella is an archeologist, dreamer, and romantic. Her twin, Elizabeth, is a trained doctor, and is the opposite, not at all romantic, and very practical down to earth modern woman. I'd like to read her story.
Alysandir Mackinnon is a warrior, head of his family, which he loves fiercely. He refuses to believe in love between a man and a woman and refuses, after being betrayed by his first wife, to take a wife again. But he is attracted to Isobella and more than he wishes. Isobella comes from the modern world of morals but understands the morals of the time period she finds herself. She’s determined to be Alysandir’s wife or nothing.
Overall, I enjoyed Ms. Coffman’s foray into Scotland of the 1500’s. A well-paced story with a good sense of humor weaved in. I enjoyed watching Black Douglas meddling, the way both Elizabeth and Isobella adapt to their new home and make it their own and in process teach these Scots a bit about acceptance and love.
Elaine Coffman
Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (April 1, 2011)
Language: English
Rating: Four Stars
What I liked about this book:
Aside from it being well written is the fact the author actually took the time to give us a flavor of Scotland in the 1500’s. It’s a time fraught with clan rivalries, skirmishes with England, and is a wild and dangerous land. The author keeps to the history of the time, including it’s a male dominated time period with very set roles for men, women, gentry, and the lower classes.
Problematic parts handled well:
Time travel can be a tricky, but a fun story premise provided it’s done correctly. Ms. Coffman does it correctly. She keeps the reactions of the characters true to their time as well. First off, time travel would be a hard pill to swallow in today’s world, much less in the 1500’s where anything unusual is considered the work of the devil and witchcraft. Lest you forget your history, any form of witchcraft was greeted with a nice toasty fire, a stake, and death.
Second, languages have changed considerably from the 1500’s to today. Even three hundred years ago, Gaelic and English, written and spoken would be hard to understand even if either were your natural tongue, but almost five hundred years ago? So Ms. Coffman’s use of background on her main character, Isobella, as an archeologist who has studied the old languages is a smart move and helps facilitate a realistic story. I did have a wee bit of a problem with Elizabeth’s apparent ease in understanding the same form of Gaelic.
All that aside, the story is fun. I have to admit a fondness for the capricious ghost of Black Douglas and his desire to mettle in his modern family’s love lives. The hint we get of rules he has to obey as a ghost. Isobella is an archeologist, dreamer, and romantic. Her twin, Elizabeth, is a trained doctor, and is the opposite, not at all romantic, and very practical down to earth modern woman. I'd like to read her story.
Alysandir Mackinnon is a warrior, head of his family, which he loves fiercely. He refuses to believe in love between a man and a woman and refuses, after being betrayed by his first wife, to take a wife again. But he is attracted to Isobella and more than he wishes. Isobella comes from the modern world of morals but understands the morals of the time period she finds herself. She’s determined to be Alysandir’s wife or nothing.
Overall, I enjoyed Ms. Coffman’s foray into Scotland of the 1500’s. A well-paced story with a good sense of humor weaved in. I enjoyed watching Black Douglas meddling, the way both Elizabeth and Isobella adapt to their new home and make it their own and in process teach these Scots a bit about acceptance and love.
April 3, 2011
I enjoyed this story with the exception of the poorly written dialogue in the beginning between our hero and heroine. Once you get past that bit of tedious chatter then the rest of the book is quite wonderful and the storyline is one that I really love. I can see myself going back in time to an age long ago just to find my tall, dark and handsome. The ending even made me a bit weepy and not because it's all sad but because of the great way the author finished it off.
Isobella Douglas is a beauty in a tom boy sort of way. Being an archaeologist tends to leave Isobella looking like a dirty urchin but that comes with the territory. Watch out though when she takes a bath and wears a gown. Whew! Talk about turning heads! She is so polar opposite during the day and night that it's like there are two different people in one body.
Poor Isobella has been jilted by her to be wed boyfriend so off she and her sister Elizabeth go to Scotland for some R&R. They go in search of family history as their heritage comes from Scotland and little do the know how up close and personal their history is about to become to them thanks to a meddling ghost and a sincere heartfelt wish for a man tall, dark and handsome. Isobella wishes for her own Mr. Darcy and you know what they say, "Be careful what you wish for cause you may just get it".
Alysandir Mackinnon, clan chief of the Mackinnon's has been hurt so badly emotionally that his heart is nothing but a stone shape encased in human flesh and blood. Tall, dark, handsome, brooding, lustful and honorable makes him the perfect catch for any woman with eyes in her head. He has sworn not to fall for a woman again and never to marry under any condition but will a meddling ghost and a wee slip of a woman as tough as he is. We can only hope that she can put a crack in his armor and seep through to the inside.
The storyline is wonderful and I love the way the time travel actually gets pulled off. The author has given us a plausible look into the long ago days of a brutal land and the people who lived there. A look into their lives intertwined with an interruption from a ghost from the past and a lass from the future. A fairy tale story of love and wishes come true that will make your toes curl as you sit on the edge of your seat waiting to see what could possibly happen next.
I would recommend this story for the fact that it is a delight waiting to be unwrapped even though it needs a bit of help in the beginning. Don't give up on it once you start as you won't be sorry you continued on til the end.
Isobella Douglas is a beauty in a tom boy sort of way. Being an archaeologist tends to leave Isobella looking like a dirty urchin but that comes with the territory. Watch out though when she takes a bath and wears a gown. Whew! Talk about turning heads! She is so polar opposite during the day and night that it's like there are two different people in one body.
Poor Isobella has been jilted by her to be wed boyfriend so off she and her sister Elizabeth go to Scotland for some R&R. They go in search of family history as their heritage comes from Scotland and little do the know how up close and personal their history is about to become to them thanks to a meddling ghost and a sincere heartfelt wish for a man tall, dark and handsome. Isobella wishes for her own Mr. Darcy and you know what they say, "Be careful what you wish for cause you may just get it".
Alysandir Mackinnon, clan chief of the Mackinnon's has been hurt so badly emotionally that his heart is nothing but a stone shape encased in human flesh and blood. Tall, dark, handsome, brooding, lustful and honorable makes him the perfect catch for any woman with eyes in her head. He has sworn not to fall for a woman again and never to marry under any condition but will a meddling ghost and a wee slip of a woman as tough as he is. We can only hope that she can put a crack in his armor and seep through to the inside.
The storyline is wonderful and I love the way the time travel actually gets pulled off. The author has given us a plausible look into the long ago days of a brutal land and the people who lived there. A look into their lives intertwined with an interruption from a ghost from the past and a lass from the future. A fairy tale story of love and wishes come true that will make your toes curl as you sit on the edge of your seat waiting to see what could possibly happen next.
I would recommend this story for the fact that it is a delight waiting to be unwrapped even though it needs a bit of help in the beginning. Don't give up on it once you start as you won't be sorry you continued on til the end.
April 29, 2018
I had been wanting to read this book for awhile but couldn't find the time (or a copy) to really sit down and do it.
Finally I did.
And it was... fine? I know I rated it one star but unlike my regular one stars I didn't feel outright disdain or offense at the material. It was just disappointment mostly.
The Return of Black Douglas is the second book in the Black Douglas series. I didn't read the first one but you don't need to read it to understand (or enjoy i guess) this book. It follows Isobella and her twin sister Elizabeth as they're thrown through time by a... ghost? Yeah, a ghost just up and decided to transport them through time to fulfill their fate.
And that is where my whole problem with this book began: everything about this book so very, annoyingly, CONVENIENT.
This ghost, Black Douglas, is the ancestor of Isobella and Elizabeth not that it matters. The reason this ghost sent them back in time was not because he's their long dead ancestor but because- for some fucking reason-Isobella cried over his grave.
Yeah.
I don't get it either.
First of all, I found this alarmingly out of character for Isobella once I was done reading. Isobella comes off at the beginning as this overly emotional female with her head in the clouds but once her tears have oh so conveniently whisked her and her sister to 1400's Scotland, her personality does a 180. Suddenly, she's not crying cause she's in an unfamiliar and frightening time period where women have literally NO worth or than as a wife but a strong willed and independent woman that can stare down two men the hero just killed and go: "Eh, it's the way of life. Kill or be killed." *shrugs and goes off to fawn over the hero.
Everything about this story was convenient. It felt less like an organic, immersive story and more like a... well... story that was crafted simply to serve a purpose. This happens so that this can happen so that this can happen, THE END. Nothing about this story felt ORGANIC. Characters appeared only to serve a purpose before promptly disappearing, the heroine/hero would change personalities to fit the narrative, and events would happen not because it felt like things had built up to it but because the author deemed it so.
It was just so bland.
To further support the "everything was so convenient" was the heroine's profession and how it affected literally every fucking thing:
The thing I find annoying about time travel romances is how the person going back in time usually has some sort of useful skill like doctor or history teacher. Actually, about 99% of the time travel romances I've read have those professions for the main character. And YES, I understand it makes them a lot more likely to survive and indispensable if stumbled upon but it takes out the danger and uncertainty of the whole situation. How can I possibly be swept up in the culture shock and unknown of the main character when she's a history teacher and conveniently knows every little bloody thing about that time period? How can i feel that fear of her fate when she's a doctor and knows how to do surgery with a fucking flask of mead and a sharp stick?
Exaggerations but you get the point.
Isobella has a bachelor’s in anthropology and Classical studies, and a master’s in Celtic studies. Instead of freaking out about being stuck in the middle ages, she's geeking out about how cool it is. She's not at all shocked by the complete 180 in culture, values, and lack of modern day conveniences... like toothbrushes or feminine products or fucking antibiotics. Things that should have left her screaming or in shock she brushed off as "Well, it's the middle ages, they do what they do. Amiright?"
Example:
No amount of anthropology or Celtic studies can prepare someone for witnessing a horrible death like that. NO AMOUNT. The violence and way of life in the middle ages is not something you learn and can now handle without a qualm. That's like reading about hand to hand combat and being perfectly fine with watching someone break another person's neck.
And I get that having a screaming, crying, shell shocked heroine isn't that great of a read. But having a heroine that has no regard for human life to the point where she's fawning over the guy (the guy she doesn't rightly know is "good" yet) isn't something i want to read either. She took me out of the book with how WELL the heroine handled EVERYTHING thrown at her. Not once was she taken aback or surprised by ANYTHING. And it was annoying as well as unbelievable.
This wasn't helped by the fact that heroine just rolls her eyes or schoffs at the hero's "jokes" about raping her. You think I'm joking but I'm NOT:
“Ye are in no position to bargain, lass. If I decided to take ye here and now, no one would stop me...."
“Mayhap ye should be. The eve is young. It’s a long way to anywhere from here. Around a near-naked lass, a man can get thoughts he canna always control, especially with the hunger that builds in his bluid after a battle. Ye should be careful. I have been without a woman for a long time.”
I should argue that this is just their first meeting. He doesn't trust her, nor does he know her. Maybe he's joking, maybe he's making a point that she's at his mercy and should cooperate. Etc etc
That being SAID.
Not trusting or knowing a woman doesn't warrant casually threatening to rape her.
But instead of being put off or afraid of these threats the heroine just rolls her eyes or huffs at him as if that's not an actual, possible outcome.
It was at this point I zoned out. The heroine was annoyingly resilient and unphased by her new environment, the hero was lackluster and without personality and I was unmoved and unimpressed by anything this book threw at me.
Overally I would suggest that if this is your first romp into a time travel romance you might like it if it's not just go back to old favorites instead of delving into this one. Not really worth the read.
DNF
Finally I did.
And it was... fine? I know I rated it one star but unlike my regular one stars I didn't feel outright disdain or offense at the material. It was just disappointment mostly.
The Return of Black Douglas is the second book in the Black Douglas series. I didn't read the first one but you don't need to read it to understand (or enjoy i guess) this book. It follows Isobella and her twin sister Elizabeth as they're thrown through time by a... ghost? Yeah, a ghost just up and decided to transport them through time to fulfill their fate.
And that is where my whole problem with this book began: everything about this book so very, annoyingly, CONVENIENT.
This ghost, Black Douglas, is the ancestor of Isobella and Elizabeth not that it matters. The reason this ghost sent them back in time was not because he's their long dead ancestor but because- for some fucking reason-Isobella cried over his grave.
Yeah.
I don't get it either.
First of all, I found this alarmingly out of character for Isobella once I was done reading. Isobella comes off at the beginning as this overly emotional female with her head in the clouds but once her tears have oh so conveniently whisked her and her sister to 1400's Scotland, her personality does a 180. Suddenly, she's not crying cause she's in an unfamiliar and frightening time period where women have literally NO worth or than as a wife but a strong willed and independent woman that can stare down two men the hero just killed and go: "Eh, it's the way of life. Kill or be killed." *shrugs and goes off to fawn over the hero.
Everything about this story was convenient. It felt less like an organic, immersive story and more like a... well... story that was crafted simply to serve a purpose. This happens so that this can happen so that this can happen, THE END. Nothing about this story felt ORGANIC. Characters appeared only to serve a purpose before promptly disappearing, the heroine/hero would change personalities to fit the narrative, and events would happen not because it felt like things had built up to it but because the author deemed it so.
It was just so bland.
To further support the "everything was so convenient" was the heroine's profession and how it affected literally every fucking thing:
The thing I find annoying about time travel romances is how the person going back in time usually has some sort of useful skill like doctor or history teacher. Actually, about 99% of the time travel romances I've read have those professions for the main character. And YES, I understand it makes them a lot more likely to survive and indispensable if stumbled upon but it takes out the danger and uncertainty of the whole situation. How can I possibly be swept up in the culture shock and unknown of the main character when she's a history teacher and conveniently knows every little bloody thing about that time period? How can i feel that fear of her fate when she's a doctor and knows how to do surgery with a fucking flask of mead and a sharp stick?
Exaggerations but you get the point.
Isobella has a bachelor’s in anthropology and Classical studies, and a master’s in Celtic studies. Instead of freaking out about being stuck in the middle ages, she's geeking out about how cool it is. She's not at all shocked by the complete 180 in culture, values, and lack of modern day conveniences... like toothbrushes or feminine products or fucking antibiotics. Things that should have left her screaming or in shock she brushed off as "Well, it's the middle ages, they do what they do. Amiright?"
Example:
No amount of anthropology or Celtic studies can prepare someone for witnessing a horrible death like that. NO AMOUNT. The violence and way of life in the middle ages is not something you learn and can now handle without a qualm. That's like reading about hand to hand combat and being perfectly fine with watching someone break another person's neck.
And I get that having a screaming, crying, shell shocked heroine isn't that great of a read. But having a heroine that has no regard for human life to the point where she's fawning over the guy (the guy she doesn't rightly know is "good" yet) isn't something i want to read either. She took me out of the book with how WELL the heroine handled EVERYTHING thrown at her. Not once was she taken aback or surprised by ANYTHING. And it was annoying as well as unbelievable.
This wasn't helped by the fact that heroine just rolls her eyes or schoffs at the hero's "jokes" about raping her. You think I'm joking but I'm NOT:
“Ye are in no position to bargain, lass. If I decided to take ye here and now, no one would stop me...."
“Mayhap ye should be. The eve is young. It’s a long way to anywhere from here. Around a near-naked lass, a man can get thoughts he canna always control, especially with the hunger that builds in his bluid after a battle. Ye should be careful. I have been without a woman for a long time.”
I should argue that this is just their first meeting. He doesn't trust her, nor does he know her. Maybe he's joking, maybe he's making a point that she's at his mercy and should cooperate. Etc etc
That being SAID.
Not trusting or knowing a woman doesn't warrant casually threatening to rape her.
But instead of being put off or afraid of these threats the heroine just rolls her eyes or huffs at him as if that's not an actual, possible outcome.
It was at this point I zoned out. The heroine was annoyingly resilient and unphased by her new environment, the hero was lackluster and without personality and I was unmoved and unimpressed by anything this book threw at me.
Overally I would suggest that if this is your first romp into a time travel romance you might like it if it's not just go back to old favorites instead of delving into this one. Not really worth the read.
DNF
April 8, 2011
3 1/2 stars
Twin sisters Isobella and Elisabeth Douglas are visiting Scotland after Isobella's broken engagement. The trip was supposed to be her honeymoon. She's sad about it and is complaining that there are no men like Mr. Darcy. The ghost of Black Douglas, a long-distant relative, hears her and decides to interfere, transporting Isobella (an archaeologist) and Elisabeth (a doctor) back to 16th century Scotland. Elisabeth is taken by the Maclean Clan, while Isobella is rescued by Alysandir Mackinnon.
While waiting for Alistair to rescue her sister, she gets to know him better. She also meets his family, and takes an unexpected family member under her wing. Throughout it all, there's a ghost playing matchmaker between a headstrong 20th century archaeologist and a stubborn 16th century Clan Chief.
My thoughts: I really enjoyed the story and wanted to give it a 4, but for me it did drag a bit in the middle. It was exciting at first - 20th century women suddenly transported back in time - and one gets stolen!!! But then, from the moment he rescued her (around ARC page 75) until they finally gave in to each other (ARC page 245), I kept waiting for something to happen - that's a lot of pages to wait (granted, it is a 415 page ARC); it seemed like they weren't doing anything to rescue Isabolla's sister, and Isabella didn't seem too concerned about it, which I found strange.
Once things got going though, I loved it! You could tell they cared for each other but each had reasons not to open up and show how they really felt. Between Alysandir's inability to trust, or rather, to allow himself to trust Isobella, and her inability to give herself fully to him, the poor Ghost of Black Douglas had his hands full! When Isobella finally got frustrated and went to see her sister, I was thrilled; I liked her sister and was interested in what was going on over at the Maclean castle. Isobella's "adopting" of young Bradan was sweet - I was honestly a bit surprised at Alysandir's treatment of the child and was happy to see how things worked out.
I'm not usually a fan of ghosts in stories, but I liked the ghost of Black Douglas - he was a big plot point but didn't have a big part, if that makes any sense.
I really enjoyed the story and have already ordered the first book in the series, The Bride of Black Douglas. I am hoping Elisabeth's story is next...
Twin sisters Isobella and Elisabeth Douglas are visiting Scotland after Isobella's broken engagement. The trip was supposed to be her honeymoon. She's sad about it and is complaining that there are no men like Mr. Darcy. The ghost of Black Douglas, a long-distant relative, hears her and decides to interfere, transporting Isobella (an archaeologist) and Elisabeth (a doctor) back to 16th century Scotland. Elisabeth is taken by the Maclean Clan, while Isobella is rescued by Alysandir Mackinnon.
While waiting for Alistair to rescue her sister, she gets to know him better. She also meets his family, and takes an unexpected family member under her wing. Throughout it all, there's a ghost playing matchmaker between a headstrong 20th century archaeologist and a stubborn 16th century Clan Chief.
My thoughts: I really enjoyed the story and wanted to give it a 4, but for me it did drag a bit in the middle. It was exciting at first - 20th century women suddenly transported back in time - and one gets stolen!!! But then, from the moment he rescued her (around ARC page 75) until they finally gave in to each other (ARC page 245), I kept waiting for something to happen - that's a lot of pages to wait (granted, it is a 415 page ARC); it seemed like they weren't doing anything to rescue Isabolla's sister, and Isabella didn't seem too concerned about it, which I found strange.
Once things got going though, I loved it! You could tell they cared for each other but each had reasons not to open up and show how they really felt. Between Alysandir's inability to trust, or rather, to allow himself to trust Isobella, and her inability to give herself fully to him, the poor Ghost of Black Douglas had his hands full! When Isobella finally got frustrated and went to see her sister, I was thrilled; I liked her sister and was interested in what was going on over at the Maclean castle. Isobella's "adopting" of young Bradan was sweet - I was honestly a bit surprised at Alysandir's treatment of the child and was happy to see how things worked out.
I'm not usually a fan of ghosts in stories, but I liked the ghost of Black Douglas - he was a big plot point but didn't have a big part, if that makes any sense.
I really enjoyed the story and have already ordered the first book in the series, The Bride of Black Douglas. I am hoping Elisabeth's story is next...
April 22, 2011
THE RETURN OF BLACK DOUGLAS by Elaine Coffman is an exciting time-travel romance set present day and 151 Scotland.What a delightful story of old and new mixing,ghosts of old,and finding your soul mate even if it is three hundred year in the making. When Isobella Douglas visit old Scotland with her twin sister,Elisabeth they are transported to 16th century Scotland by the mischievous Black Douglas' ghost. While Black Douglas are Isobella and Elisbeth ancient ancestors he is also devious,believes in love,fate and determined the girls will be happy in their new surroundings. When Isobella and Elisabeth are dropped in the middle of a clan skimish,Isobella is saved by Alysandir,the clan Mackinnon chief,while Elizabeth is carted off by the Maclean clan.Alysandir has harden his heart by a marriage gone wrong,and rules his clan with an iron fist.He suspects Isobella is a spy,for she is not only in strange clothes but also speaks strangely. As Alysandir's heart softens toward Isobella,for she is intriguing,infuriating,sexy,beautiful, and intelligent,he is also dealing with the fact of a son he does not acknowlege,from is annuled marriage and hurt of so long ago.In the meantime Isobella has fallen head over heels in love with him not knowing her future or her sister's future.
The more Alysandir and Isobella are together the more they become attached.Isobella will realize this is her future as will Alysandir realize that this strange,adorable woman is his future.This is a fast paced story of time-travel full of romance,sweet sensuality,learning from the past,finding the future in the strangest places and true love.This is a must read for all time-travel,romance,and historical readers.There is a little something for everyone.I can hardly wait for the next installment,for we still have to find out what happens to Elisabeth.This book was received for the purpose of review from the publisher and details can be found at Sourcebooks,Casablanca,a imprint of Sourcebooks,Inc. and My Book Addiction Reviews.
The more Alysandir and Isobella are together the more they become attached.Isobella will realize this is her future as will Alysandir realize that this strange,adorable woman is his future.This is a fast paced story of time-travel full of romance,sweet sensuality,learning from the past,finding the future in the strangest places and true love.This is a must read for all time-travel,romance,and historical readers.There is a little something for everyone.I can hardly wait for the next installment,for we still have to find out what happens to Elisabeth.This book was received for the purpose of review from the publisher and details can be found at Sourcebooks,Casablanca,a imprint of Sourcebooks,Inc. and My Book Addiction Reviews.
April 6, 2011
My thoughts:
Sometimes the Scottish accent works and sometimes not. This time it worked for me and I do think I know the reason. The Hero had his accent, the heroine not, so it was never too much. Which I am glad for since it can be pretty hard sometimes to understand.
To the book then, it was sweet and fun. Isobella Douglas is visiting Scotland and soon she and her sister stands in a battlefield. Ok at the side, and they watch some handsome, really handsome highlanders fight each other. Every woman's dream (the hunky guys in kilts, not the fighting). Elizabeth is soon gone and then we have our hero and heroine, Isobella is a modern woman and she will let no man tell her what to do. But she is falling for Alysandir who do not want a woman again after being hurt. And Elizabeth knows that a mistress is of no worth. Alysandir did have some moments where I just shook my head. But then you saw it so much better in this book because they were from different times. But I was also sure that the heroine could transform him.
These two are slowly falling in love, Isobella wants help getting her sister back, and then she discovers a neglected child and takes the child under her wings. There is also a big question hanging in the air, will The Black Douglas suddenly come and take her back home, what if she wants to stay?
And the best of all, I know I always come back to my oh no! She is ruined bit, but here I did not care since this was a modern woman, so she could just do as she pleased ;)
Conclusion:
I finished this book rather fast because it was easy and fun. A good highland romance with a couple that is nothing alike.
Rating:
A fast read
Sometimes the Scottish accent works and sometimes not. This time it worked for me and I do think I know the reason. The Hero had his accent, the heroine not, so it was never too much. Which I am glad for since it can be pretty hard sometimes to understand.
To the book then, it was sweet and fun. Isobella Douglas is visiting Scotland and soon she and her sister stands in a battlefield. Ok at the side, and they watch some handsome, really handsome highlanders fight each other. Every woman's dream (the hunky guys in kilts, not the fighting). Elizabeth is soon gone and then we have our hero and heroine, Isobella is a modern woman and she will let no man tell her what to do. But she is falling for Alysandir who do not want a woman again after being hurt. And Elizabeth knows that a mistress is of no worth. Alysandir did have some moments where I just shook my head. But then you saw it so much better in this book because they were from different times. But I was also sure that the heroine could transform him.
These two are slowly falling in love, Isobella wants help getting her sister back, and then she discovers a neglected child and takes the child under her wings. There is also a big question hanging in the air, will The Black Douglas suddenly come and take her back home, what if she wants to stay?
And the best of all, I know I always come back to my oh no! She is ruined bit, but here I did not care since this was a modern woman, so she could just do as she pleased ;)
Conclusion:
I finished this book rather fast because it was easy and fun. A good highland romance with a couple that is nothing alike.
Rating:
A fast read
May 1, 2011
I have always loved a good timetravel story, sometimes time travel stories can be so predictable but The Return of Black Douglas by Elaine Coffman was different. For starters, not only was Isobella sent back in time but so was her sister Elizabeth with the help of the ghost of Black Douglas who is a matchmaking ghost. The story was a fun and easy read and the characters so real that they could have stepped right out of a portrait...oops that is what happened to Black Douglas. The setting was in the 16th century between two clans who have their own conflicts with each other and the arrival of the sisters only enhance the conflicts. This is a great romance story, sure to make you smile at the end. If you love a great well told story than you will love this one. Full of handsome Highlanders, including the brogue, a pure escapist story. I enjoyed it..
December 6, 2011
Even though I'm not a fan of time travel, I enjoyed this story. I thought the H/h were believable in their thoughts and actions. The author does a nice job of setting up a sequel with the heroine's sister.
February 18, 2012
Great story.....one of the best Epilogues I've ever encountered. Can't wait to read the next in the series.
September 27, 2017
I liked components of this book enough to finish it, and some of the dialogue made me laugh out loud
Fun elements: time travel, 16th century Scotland, a meddling ghost, an epilogue that wraps the story up in a tidy bow at the end.
Problematic elements: author confuses sex with love and caveman tendencies with strength, and the dialect is inconsistent.
Fun elements: time travel, 16th century Scotland, a meddling ghost, an epilogue that wraps the story up in a tidy bow at the end.
Problematic elements: author confuses sex with love and caveman tendencies with strength, and the dialect is inconsistent.
February 14, 2019
Elaine Coffman has written such a phenomenal book! Lots of turns but ultimately, lots of love. I could not put this book down! I would recommend Elaine Coffman to anyone! She is just great at writing books!
December 8, 2020
Entertaining
Not bad. The angst between the main characters did drag on a bit too long and the stubbornness and lack of compromise until the end went beyond what was realistic. A very good day read.
Not bad. The angst between the main characters did drag on a bit too long and the stubbornness and lack of compromise until the end went beyond what was realistic. A very good day read.
March 10, 2021
Good
Twins sister thrown thru time to the past by 500 years by none other then the ghost of the back Douglas himself. Great book
Twins sister thrown thru time to the past by 500 years by none other then the ghost of the back Douglas himself. Great book
January 30, 2017
The hero is too stubborn for his own good.
March 21, 2011
The Return of Black Douglas by Elaine Coffman
Paranormal Romance –April 1st, 2011
4 ½ stars
If you love time travel books and are looking for a fun escapism romance, then this lighthearted romp by Elaine Coffman is the book for you!
After her failed engagement, Isobella decides to go on a trip to Scotland with her twin sister Elisabeth. While visiting the tome of her Douglas ancestors they find a silver case that holds the heart of the Black Douglas. Isobella is moved by his tragic death and feels a real connection to her ancestors. Later, she begins to have strange and erotic dreams of a brawny highlander. When the sisters visit Beloyn Castle, Isobella is captivated by the portrait of the Black Douglas. When she touches it, they both find themselves transported back to 1515 in the midst of a battle! Each sister is captured by a rival clan. Isobella is saved by the Mackinnon clan. She tries to persuade the MacKinnon clan and the sexy Alysandir to rescue her sister.
Alysandir Mackinnon is a tough highlander who only wants to protect and defend his clan. Unlike his other Scotsmen he has no time for women. He had a wife once before and never wanted to experience it again! But when a strange woman named Isobella comes into his life he realizes he may have to rethink his old ideas.
Time travel books are usually hit or miss. They are fun to read but sometimes they are too unbelievable and farfetched. This book made me want to believe that Isobella and her sister had traveled back in time. I really enjoyed each of their adventures. The best part is how the author brings to life some very real characters and makes them human. I was fascinated by each of sister’s struggles, but particularly enjoyed reading about practical Elisabeth. (Wish the author had included more about her!) Isobella has a very romantic heart and meeting Alysandir certainly gave her all the romance and drama she could want!
This time travel was a delight to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
Paranormal Romance –April 1st, 2011
4 ½ stars
If you love time travel books and are looking for a fun escapism romance, then this lighthearted romp by Elaine Coffman is the book for you!
After her failed engagement, Isobella decides to go on a trip to Scotland with her twin sister Elisabeth. While visiting the tome of her Douglas ancestors they find a silver case that holds the heart of the Black Douglas. Isobella is moved by his tragic death and feels a real connection to her ancestors. Later, she begins to have strange and erotic dreams of a brawny highlander. When the sisters visit Beloyn Castle, Isobella is captivated by the portrait of the Black Douglas. When she touches it, they both find themselves transported back to 1515 in the midst of a battle! Each sister is captured by a rival clan. Isobella is saved by the Mackinnon clan. She tries to persuade the MacKinnon clan and the sexy Alysandir to rescue her sister.
Alysandir Mackinnon is a tough highlander who only wants to protect and defend his clan. Unlike his other Scotsmen he has no time for women. He had a wife once before and never wanted to experience it again! But when a strange woman named Isobella comes into his life he realizes he may have to rethink his old ideas.
Time travel books are usually hit or miss. They are fun to read but sometimes they are too unbelievable and farfetched. This book made me want to believe that Isobella and her sister had traveled back in time. I really enjoyed each of their adventures. The best part is how the author brings to life some very real characters and makes them human. I was fascinated by each of sister’s struggles, but particularly enjoyed reading about practical Elisabeth. (Wish the author had included more about her!) Isobella has a very romantic heart and meeting Alysandir certainly gave her all the romance and drama she could want!
This time travel was a delight to read.
Reviewed by Steph from the Bookaholics Romance Book Club
April 28, 2011
I would like to start by saying that I love time travel books. To love time travel books one has to be able to let reality go. 'Cause time travel just doesn't happen. Nor do paintings come to life or any of the other things that tend to happen in this genre of novel. But that doesn't mean that the book can't still be grounded in some semblance of its own reality. The world outside of the time travel still has to make sense for the book to work. And that is where this book let me down.
The tale starts with the visit of twins Isobella and Elizabeth Douglas to Scotland to explore their ancestors. One of them is the famous "Black Douglas." Isobella has studied Celtic history and she wanted to know more about the past of her family. She had also just been dumped by her fiance; he ran off with their dance instructor! She wanted a Darcy but didn't think she'd ever find one in modern times. She felt she was born hundreds of years too late.
Erm, we all know what happens next, right? Both Isobella and Elizabeth are sent back into the past by their ancestor The Black Douglas to the 16th century. A bit before Mr. Darcy to say the least.
While I liked the characters and I enjoyed Ms. Coffman's writing there were just too many stupid plot points that spoiled the book for me. I don't want to go into them in detail because I don't want to ruin the book for anyone that reads it. Things that were obvious to the reader that just were ignored by the characters. Again, I realize that these books are inherently fantastic but there must be some sense of protocol. For example: The hero finds the two girls from the future in a field wearing 21st century clothing. He captures one of them but doesn't search her bag even though he thinks her a spy? Makes no sense...
This is just one of many small little things that helped to distract me from totally enjoying the story.
The tale starts with the visit of twins Isobella and Elizabeth Douglas to Scotland to explore their ancestors. One of them is the famous "Black Douglas." Isobella has studied Celtic history and she wanted to know more about the past of her family. She had also just been dumped by her fiance; he ran off with their dance instructor! She wanted a Darcy but didn't think she'd ever find one in modern times. She felt she was born hundreds of years too late.
Erm, we all know what happens next, right? Both Isobella and Elizabeth are sent back into the past by their ancestor The Black Douglas to the 16th century. A bit before Mr. Darcy to say the least.
While I liked the characters and I enjoyed Ms. Coffman's writing there were just too many stupid plot points that spoiled the book for me. I don't want to go into them in detail because I don't want to ruin the book for anyone that reads it. Things that were obvious to the reader that just were ignored by the characters. Again, I realize that these books are inherently fantastic but there must be some sense of protocol. For example: The hero finds the two girls from the future in a field wearing 21st century clothing. He captures one of them but doesn't search her bag even though he thinks her a spy? Makes no sense...
This is just one of many small little things that helped to distract me from totally enjoying the story.
March 6, 2011
This review is going to be short and sweet. I like the story and enjoyed the interactions between the characters but I had one big problem....
The dialogue between characters.
It seemed so unrealistic. If you literally speak the dialogue in this book, you can hear how ridiculous it sounds. I think this is just an editing issue. Someone needs to just go through the book and speak the dialogue out loud and realize that noone would talk the way the characters talk.
So why am I giving it three stars? Because everything else was pretty darn good. Eventually, I got used to the weird formal unrealistic dialogue and the book grew on me. Plus, this is an arc copy. Hopefully, the final copy will have some additional editing that includes improvement in the area of character dialogue.
The dialogue between characters.
It seemed so unrealistic. If you literally speak the dialogue in this book, you can hear how ridiculous it sounds. I think this is just an editing issue. Someone needs to just go through the book and speak the dialogue out loud and realize that noone would talk the way the characters talk.
So why am I giving it three stars? Because everything else was pretty darn good. Eventually, I got used to the weird formal unrealistic dialogue and the book grew on me. Plus, this is an arc copy. Hopefully, the final copy will have some additional editing that includes improvement in the area of character dialogue.
June 29, 2013
Scottish dialogue, men in kilts -- need I say more? Coffman does a remarkable job of painting the background of the Scottish Highlands. The dialogue is superb and the passionate scenes not overdone, which seems to be the norm lately. This is the story of Isobella and Alysandir. Elisabeth's story will hopefully be in the next book. Time-travel has to be written well, or it ruins the whole feel of the book. Coffman succeeds admirably, and although I really didn't love the character of Alysandir, in time I liked him. If you're looking for a sweet romance set in a different time, pick up The Return of Black Douglas!
September 27, 2011
I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first Black Douglas book. Factually, it was good, but it had considerably more extraneous fluff (i.e. unnecessary, excessive verbiage) than the first one. The author also had the sad tendency to have her 21st century time-traveling twin sisters flip-flop between modern English and 16th century English, often in the same bit of dialog. The plot was good and I managed to finish the whole book, but I was very distracted by the need to ferret the story out from under all the technical distractions.
September 24, 2011
This one is a really sweet time travel romance book.
Isobella and her twin sister Elisabeth are visiting Scotland after Isobella was dumped by her fiance a week before the wedding. She visits the artifacts of her ancestor Black Douglas and suddenly she is transported back in time to the middle of a clan battle and so begins the story.
If you like highland romances I think you would like this one. It is a fun read and the characters are well done.
Isobella and her twin sister Elisabeth are visiting Scotland after Isobella was dumped by her fiance a week before the wedding. She visits the artifacts of her ancestor Black Douglas and suddenly she is transported back in time to the middle of a clan battle and so begins the story.
If you like highland romances I think you would like this one. It is a fun read and the characters are well done.
June 25, 2011
This was a very good read that kept my interest from beginning to end. Though not my usual genre I found it very well written and the characters easy to identify with and follow. I recommend this book as a good read.
March 19, 2015
3.5 - 4 stars.
Although there was some eyerolling stuff going on plotwise, all in all it was entertaining.
A jokster ghost, a hunky laird and twins from Texas. Nice light time travel. :)
Will be reading the story about the other twin soon.
Although there was some eyerolling stuff going on plotwise, all in all it was entertaining.
A jokster ghost, a hunky laird and twins from Texas. Nice light time travel. :)
Will be reading the story about the other twin soon.
March 23, 2012
My Review: I have to admit to reading another Highlander time travel novel. This one kept me back and forth. One moment loving it, another...
READ MORE HERE: http://makaylasbookreviews.blogspot.c...
READ MORE HERE: http://makaylasbookreviews.blogspot.c...
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews