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The Secret (Highlands' Lairds, #1)
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Previous BRs - Authors; E - H > Garwood, Julie - The Secret, A "Buddy Read" Start: 9/26/11

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message 1: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 27, 2011 08:40PM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments descriptiondescriptiondescription[image error]

The Secret, by Julie Garwood
Book #1 of the Highlands' Lairds Series.

Synopsis:
Judith Hampton was as beautiful as she was proud, as purposeful as she was loyal. The dear Scottish friend of her childhood was about to give birth, and Judith had promised to be at her side. But there was another, private reason for the journey from her bleak English home to the Highlands: to meet the father she had never known, the Laird Maclean. Nothing prepared her for the sight of the Scottish barbarian who was to escort her into his land ... Iain Maitland, Laird of his clan, a man more powerfully compelling than any she had ever encountered.

In a spirited clash of wills and customs, Judith reveled in the melting bliss of Iain's searching kisses, his passionate caresses. Perplexed by her sprightly defiance, bemused by her tender nature, Iain felt his soul growing into the light and warmth of her love. Surely nothing would wrench her from the affection and trust of Iain and his clan ... not even the truth about her father, a devastating secret that could shatter the boldest alliance, and the most glorious of loves!
Sans and I are planning another Julie Garwood "Buddy Read". Start date set for September 26, 2011.

EXPECT SPOILERS!

Feel free to join us. We will be posting discussion questions. You can volunteer to post some, just chose to answer them (some or all), or even stop by to say "Hi!"


OPTION 1 – Four chapters/day.

Date Chapters (pages) PPDQs*
09/26/11 Prologue – Chp. 3 (85) Lisa Kay
09/27/11 Chp. 4 – Chp. 7 (87) CaroB
09/28/11 Chp. 8 – Chp. 11 (109) Lisa Kay
09/29/11 Chp. 12 – Chp. 15 (95) Sans


OPTION 2 – Three chapters/day.

Date Chapters PPDQs*
09/26/11 Prologue – Chp. 2 (66)
09/27/11 Chp. 3 – Chp. 5 (52)
09/28/11 Chp. 6 – Chp. 8 (85)
09/29/11 Chp. 9 – Chp. 11 (78)
09/30/11 Chp. 12 – Chp. 15 (95)
*PPDQs = Person Posting Discussion Questions



Questions for Prologue – Chapter 3

1. “They became friends before they were old enough to understand they were supposed to hate each other.” The opening line of this book! Were you able to get the feel of these two BFFLs as little girls? (Best Friends For Life) Did Julie Garwood set the scene? Was the dialogue believable for four to five year-olds? Do you have a BFFL? Or someone you keep in contact with from your childhood?

2. How about the end of that prologue? What did you think of THAT pronouncement?

3. How do you feel about the relationship between Patrick, Iain’s brother, and Frances Catherine?

4. How about Iain’s attitude toward his sister-in-law, Frances Catherine? The English? And vice versa (hers towards him)? That is SOME secret. And, we know it from the beginning. Since this is a love story with a HEA, do you think Iain will learn of it before or after he weds Judith? Are there more secrets to be revealed?

5. We know he said why, but what do you think are the reasons were behind Judith’s Uncle Tekel stories about her father? Were they “justified?” Was his heart in the right place?

6. Iain is “appalled” over Judith’s decimation of her father’s grave. At least she tells him it is empty. Why do you think she doesn’t explain herself?

7. Who do you think was more surprised by Judith’s first “last” question of him: Iain, Judith, or you?

8. So many customs regarding “breaking bread together.” It is as old as time. Comments on this scene and Judith’s talking herself out of feeling humiliated in chapter 2?

9. Okay. I’d like to wake tomorrow morning with four rugged Scotsmen standing around me bed, please. No question here. Just a “drool” pause, LOL! Any one of them can pull me up into their saddle and act possessive anytime he wants.

10. Though shy, Judith is quick to laughter – at herself and others; she also can work her gift of mirth on Iain and make him laugh; for you, is this an appealing characteristic in the opposite sex? How high does it rank on your list?

11. Garwood’s humor is very subtle; are you enjoying it? Have you laughed out loud, smiled widely like or ninny, or just cracked a “wee” bit of a grin a couple of times? In your opinion, what was the most humorous thing so far?

12. Don't just tell me your favorite bookcover above, in the first post. Rate them on a scale of 1-10: #1=? #2=? #3=? #4=?


Questions for Chapters 4 to 7

13. Given how Judith’s reaction to Cameron’s anger/shouting, why is she not scared of any of the Highlander’s she’s travelling with?

14 After reading “Through a Dark Mist” with you ladies, I am loving how readable this book is. I’m actually finding it hard to put down whereas I’d be quite happy to stop at the 2 chapter mark with TADM. Is anyone else finding this? Is it a completely unfair comparison?

15. Brodick openly states his interest in Judith when he asks Iain to let him know if he doesn’t want to keep her. What do you think of Brodick’s character at this stage? Are you surprised by his interest?

16. Is anyone else thinking that Judith is going to change the tradition of not many outsiders being allowed on Maitland land while she’s “visiting”? Oh, and that Agnes is going to need a b*tch-slap soon?

17. Talk about harsh, Iain telling Judith she places too much importance on herself! Why doesn’t Judith believe his apology? What do you think of the budding relationship and the hurdles they’re bound to face with the clan?

18. Judith as a midwife. Iain’s seen the ring. Any predictions on the trouble to come?


message 2: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 29, 2011 11:44AM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Questions for Chapters 8 – 11

19. Oh, Judith was called before the priest, Father Laggan. What did you think was going to happen? Agnes was looking smug; think this is Judith’s last confrontation with her?

20. Whoa! Talk about prehistoric anecdotage. What did you think of that cemetery? What are your feelings about the religious belief that a woman must suffer the “sins of Eve?” Pretty sad, if you consider the belief that God is a comfort.

21. “Iain? Is something the matter? You’ve turned gray.” Iain figured out Judith’s Secret before the end of Chapter 8. Then he left quickly for three weeks (and two days!). What do you think he’ll do about? Where do you think he went? Looks like he has a few secrets of his own. That was some possessive kiss before he left. Phew!

22. Whatever was the Council discussing before Judith showed up?

23. “Graham was standing between us. I might have married him. No. I’m certain it was Iain. He kissed me after…Graham didn’t.” What did you think of that confusing wedding? You’re favorite quote from that scenario?

24. What was your favorite quote from the wedding night?

25. Did you like how Judith managed to keep Graham and Gelfrid in the Keep?

26. Who did you suspect of throwing the stones? Comments on how Judith handled Andrew? How Iain did?

27. What are Judith’s plans for Helen?


Questions for Chapters 12-15

28. What do you think of Judith's "solution" for Helen's boredom and loneliness?

29. Why is Gelfrid so obsessed with Judith nearly losing an eye??

30. Iain's realized he's been caught in the Big "L" trap! Is the timing right? Did you think he'd admit it so soon?

31. Judith really is a great character. Would you have thought to create a festival for the children to get the adults to loosen up and relax for a day, socialize, get to know their clan members better?

32. I was wondering if there was a sibling for Judith somewhere. Before you read any further, how did you think the kidnapping would turn out?

33. And the truth is out. What do you make of everyone's reactions (Laird Maclean, Douglas, Iain, Graham)?

34. Why is Iain being such an asshat and not fixing things between him and Judith right now?

35. The Agnes issue was quietly dealt with. Were you expecting something bigger, more dramatic?

36. Quite a bit happened at the end of this book. Frances Catherin had twins, nearly the entire clan was packed up and ready to follow Iain and Judith, a new era of power dawned, and the Maitlands and Macleans have an alliance. Did this ending satisfy you? Was it too wrapped up, too mushy, any loose ends you noticed?

Ladies, thank you once again for such a fun read! I adored this book and I would love to read the next one with you guys!


message 3: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Reserved.


message 4: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Reserved.


message 5: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Until we start posting questions, feel free to post your favorite bookcover.


message 6: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) Is this for The Secret or The Bride? You have The Bride listed at the top of message 1.


message 7: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Eek!!!! How did that happen? Thanks, Shelly!


message 8: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Why does the cover for The Bride (Lairds' Fiancees, #1) by Julie Garwood come up when I'm looking for The Secret? Very interesting.


message 9: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) Hmmm, I'll look into that when I get home, maybe someone added it by mistake?


message 10: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments I typed in "The Secret by Julie Garwood" to narrow down the field (since there were so many).


message 11: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) I just checked, and they are not cross-referenced, so who knows?

Oh, and can I join this one too! I'm really enjoying the challenges!


message 12: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina I'm in!


message 13: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Great, Shelly & CaroB!


message 14: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans Looking forward to it, ladies!


message 15: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments I posted the chapter breakdowns above. Let me know which option you ladies prefer. Thanks!


message 16: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina I'm good for 4 chapters a day. I'm also good to do Chapters 4-7, if that's ok.


message 17: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans good for me too! I'll do the first 4 chapters.


message 18: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Great, ladies! Just waiting to hear from Shelly.


message 19: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) 4 chapters a day is fine with me. And I'll do a set of questions as well!


message 20: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Great, Shelly! Thanks. :)


message 21: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans Sorry, going to start a day late. Forgot my book this weekend. Grrr.


message 22: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments I can do the questions today, if you like, Sans. Just let me know. Not that I'll be able to tell when there is a message in this thread. One of them has the red number of "unread messages" at 2,270!


message 23: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans WTH? GR is spazzing out again. Sure, if you'd like to take the first set, Caro is doing the second, so I'll take the third. I'll get organized one of these days...


message 24: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 26, 2011 12:05PM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Hey, Sans, I could tell you posted b/c it went to 2,271! LOL. Just kidding. It wasn't this thread. Let me see if I can tear myself away from my iPod to go find the book. Just downloaded the best album ever - Fleetwood Mac's Rumours.



message 25: by Sashana (last edited Sep 26, 2011 11:05AM) (new)

Sashana Lisa Kay, that's one of my favirte albums of all time too. Dreams, Oh Daddy, and The Chain are a few of my favorite tracks.


message 26: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans I love my iPod. I get more stressed out when I forget it at home than I do if I forget my mobile.


message 27: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 26, 2011 11:23AM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Sashana wrote: "Lisa Kay, that's one of my favorite albums of all time too. Dreams, Oh Daddy, and The Chain are a few of my favorite tracks."

It is such a great album, Sashana! I have a hard time selecting a favorite song from it. I do know I do a lot of chair-dancing to Second Hand News and You Make Loving Fun and... well, ALL of them!


message 28: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina Love Fleetwood Mac. I'll agree with Sashana on Dreams and The Chain, but also love Go Your Own Way and Don't Stop. great driving music!


message 29: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans Lisa Kay, I'll just swap with you for the last set of chappies so I don't mess anyone else up!


message 30: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments"Now here you go again, you say you want your freedom... Well, who am I to keep you down?"


message 32: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Okay, Sans! Now that the song is over with I can answer you! Fine by me. :)


message 33: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) Okay ladies, unfortunately, I'm gonna have to bow out on this one. They've opened up the overtime at work and momma needs the money! I just got home now, and it's 8pm, I haven't had time to read, and I don't think I will the rest of the week. I'll keep checking in to see how you like it though! I'm so sorry about this!


message 34: by Lisa Kay (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Not a problem, Shelly! Real Life does that. We'll cyber chat over another one.


message 35: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) Thanks Lisa Kay. I am awful sorry, was looking forward to this book, and love chatting with you ladies.


message 36: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 26, 2011 08:43PM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Lisa Kay's Questions for Prologue – Chapter 3

1. “They became friends before they were old enough to understand they were supposed to hate each other.” The opening line of this book! Were you able to get the feel of these two BFFLs as little girls? (Best Friends For Life) Did Julie Garwood set the scene? Was the dialogue believable for four to five year-olds? Do you have a BFFL? Or someone you keep in contact with from your childhood?

2. How about the end of that prologue? What did you think of THAT pronouncement?

3. How do you feel about the relationship between Patrick, Iain’s brother, and Frances Catherine?

4. How about Iain’s attitude toward his sister-in-law, Frances Catherine? The English? And vice versa (hers towards him)? That is SOME secret. And, we know it from the beginning. Since this is a love story with a HEA, do you think Iain will learn of it before or after he weds Judith? Are there more secrets to be revealed?

5. We know he said why, but what do you think are the reasons were behind Judith’s Uncle Tekel stories about her father? Were they “justified?” Was his heart in the right place?

6. Iain is “appalled” over Judith’s decimation of her father’s grave. At least she tells him it is empty. Why do you think she doesn’t explain herself?

7. Who do you think was more surprised by Judith’s first “last” question of him: Iain, Judith, or you?

8. So many customs regarding “breaking bread together.” It is as old as time. Comments on this scene and Judith’s talking herself out of feeling humiliated in chapter 2?

9. Okay. I’d like to wake tomorrow morning with four rugged Scotsmen standing around me bed, please. No question here. Just a “drool” pause, LOL! Any one of them can pull me up into their saddle and act possessive anytime he wants.

10. Though shy, Judith is quick to laughter – at herself and others; she also can work her gift of mirth on Iain and make him laugh; for you, is this an appealing characteristic in the opposite sex? How high does it rank on your list?

11. Garwood’s humor is very subtle; are you enjoying it? Have you laughed out loud, smiled widely like or ninny, or just cracked a “wee” bit of a grin a couple of times? In your opinion, what was the most humorous thing so far?

12. Don't just tell me your favorite bookcover above, in the first post. Rate them on a scale of 1-10: #1=? #2=? #3=? #4=?


message 37: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina Shell's Bells wrote: "Okay ladies, unfortunately, I'm gonna have to bow out on this one. They've opened up the overtime at work and momma needs the money! I just got home now, and it's 8pm, I haven't had time to read,..."

No worries Shell's Bells! Just think of all the lovely books you'll be able to buy with the overtime money (what's left of it after the bills are paid anyways :-) )


message 38: by Shelly (new) - added it

Shelly (shellye77) Thanks Caro - that's what I keep telling myself!


message 39: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans Sans answers for Questions for Prologue – Chapter 3

1.
“They became friends before they were old enough to understand they were supposed to hate each other.” The opening line of this book! Were you able to get the feel of these two BFFLs as little girls? (Best Friends For Life) Did Julie Garwood set the scene? Was the dialogue believable for four to five year-olds? Do you have a BFFL? Or someone you keep in contact with from your childhood?
I did. I think she set the scene well, it was very believable. I have two BFFLs (had three but one passed away a few years ago - we'd been BFFs since we were 5).

2. How about the end of that prologue? What did you think of THAT pronouncement?
Yikes. I know it was partially the times, but she'd better have a damn good reason for hating her husband.

3. How do you feel about the relationship between Patrick, Iain’s brother, and Frances Catherine?
He's such a sweetie and obviously loves her. Awwwww!!

4. How about Iain’s attitude toward his sister-in-law, Frances Catherine? The English? And vice versa (hers towards him)? That is SOME secret. And, we know it from the beginning. Since this is a love story with a HEA, do you think Iain will learn of it before or after he weds Judith? Are there more secrets to be revealed?
He certainly hasn't done anything to make her comfortable with him. I'm curious why she's so terrified of him. I can understand the hatred of the English though. I think he'll find out before. And yeah, I think there are at least a few more secrets to be found out before the HEA.

5. We know he said why, but what do you think are the reasons were behind Judith’s Uncle Tekel stories about her father? Were they “justified?” Was his heart in the right place?
I think Tekel is ashamed about having a Scot for a brother-in-law. The stories weren't justified IMO. I think he really was lonely and he does love Judith, but his drinking poisoned him too much. At least he was never creepy child molester uncle!

6. Iain is “appalled” over Judith’s decimation of her father’s grave. At least she tells him it is empty. Why do you think she doesn’t explain herself?
She just met this guy and even thought she's panting after him already, it doesn't mean he needs to know her secrets yet. Also, where would the tension and conflict come from later if she told him first off? ^o^

7. Who do you think was more surprised by Judith’s first “last” question of him: Iain, Judith, or you?
I think she was more surprised than Iain was and it made me snicker.

8. So many customs regarding “breaking bread together.” It is as old as time. Comments on this scene and Judith’s talking herself out of feeling humiliated in chapter 2?
Awwww, poor Judith. Hospitality is a very important part of life, especially back in the day. But I can also see why the men waited until Iain made the first move. It wouldn't do to go against the Laird's wishes or lead! I think she did a good job of bringing herself out of her embarrassment.

9. Okay. I’d like to wake tomorrow morning with four rugged Scotsmen standing around me bed, please. No question here. Just a “drool” pause, LOL! Any one of them can pull me up into their saddle and act possessive anytime he wants.
DITTO, my friend. Where's the signup sheet??

10. Though shy, Judith is quick to laughter – at herself and others; she also can work her gift of mirth on Iain and make him laugh; for you, is this an appealing characteristic in the opposite sex? How high does it rank on your list?
Definitely! I firmly believe if you can't laugh, you aren't living. Sense of humor is VERY high, ranked 1 or 2, depending on my mood. ^o^

11. Garwood’s humor is very subtle; are you enjoying it? Have you laughed out loud, smiled widely like or ninny, or just cracked a “wee” bit of a grin a couple of times? In your opinion, what was the most humorous thing so far?
Very much! I've snickered and giggled a couple of times. Hmmm, I'll have to browse through the first couple chapters again to find the funniest moment so far.

12. Don't just tell me your favorite bookcover above, in the first post. Rate them on a scale of 1-10: #1=? #2=? #3=? #4=?
I actually like them in reverse order! 1=4, 2=3, 3=2, 4-1. ^o^


message 40: by Lina (last edited Sep 27, 2011 02:14PM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina CaroB's answers for Lisa Kay's Questions for Prologue – Chapter 3

1. “They became friends before they were old enough to understand they were supposed to hate each other.” The opening line of this book! Were you able to get the feel of these two BFFLs as little girls? (Best Friends For Life) Did Julie Garwood set the scene? Was the dialogue believable for four to five year-olds? Do you have a BFFL? Or someone you keep in contact with from your childhood? Loved the opening line! Garwood gives us a great feel for the instant rapport between the two girls and how their personalities balance and support each other to sustain their friendship through the years. We moved around a lot when I was little, so no BFFL for me, though thanks to Facebook, still manage to keep in touch with a few girls from high school.

2. How about the end of that prologue? What did you think of THAT pronouncement? That her father is a Scot? I'm hoping it will end up bringing harmoney between the Maitland and the Maclean clans... but it'll probably cause a lot fo trouble before that happens.

3. How do you feel about the relationship between Patrick, Iain’s brother, and Frances Catherine? I think it's really lovely. It actually made me wonder if there may have been a book before this with their story I'd like to read, but seems not. She's obviously very hormonal at the moment, which made me laugh :-)

4. How about Iain’s attitude toward his sister-in-law, Frances Catherine? The English? And vice versa (hers towards him)? That is SOME secret. And, we know it from the beginning. Since this is a love story with a HEA, do you think Iain will learn of it before or after he weds Judith? Are there more secrets to be revealed? Good questions! I'm really surprised that Iain's character seems to be so removed from the women of the clan. It made me wonder how Patrick and Iain could be so close as brothers and F.C to still feel so wary of Iain after three years of marriage to his brother! And Iain just seems oblivious! His attitude to the English is understandable, though his confused reaction to Judith bodes very well! I think Iain'll learn the secret before he weds her.

5. We know he said why, but what do you think are the reasons were behind Judith’s Uncle Tekel stories about her father? Were they “justified?” Was his heart in the right place? Hmmm, I think he meant well to begin with but became a mean drunk over the years. She was very little and he sought to bring her comfort, in a way. Later though, I think the stories were more for him.

6. Iain is “appalled” over Judith’s decimation of her father’s grave. At least she tells him it is empty. Why do you think she doesn’t explain herself? She's just met him, she doesn't want to have to explain her embarrasing family situation to a stranger.

7. Who do you think was more surprised by Judith’s first “last” question of him: Iain, Judith, or you? Judith. Iain and I came a close second! :-p

8. So many customs regarding “breaking bread together.” It is as old as time. Comments on this scene and Judith’s talking herself out of feeling humiliated in chapter 2? I was a bit confused by this scene. Were the other men just waiting for the Laird's ok before eating with her? Or was it really because she was English, as Brodick took longer to come over?

9. Okay. I’d like to wake tomorrow morning with four rugged Scotsmen standing around me bed, please. No question here. Just a “drool” pause, LOL! Any one of them can pull me up into their saddle and act possessive anytime he wants. Sorry Lisa Kay, you'll have to fight me for them! ;-)

10. Though shy, Judith is quick to laughter – at herself and others; she also can work her gift of mirth on Iain and make him laugh; for you, is this an appealing characteristic in the opposite sex? How high does it rank on your list? Extremly high! For me, that would have be in the top 3 priorities.

11. Garwood’s humor is very subtle; are you enjoying it? Have you laughed out loud, smiled widely like or ninny, or just cracked a “wee” bit of a grin a couple of times? In your opinion, what was the most humorous thing so far? I haven't laughed out loud, but I've done plenty of smiling. I'm really enjoying the way that the men are reacting to her.

12. Don't just tell me your favorite bookcover above, in the first post. Rate them on a scale of 1-10: #1=4/10 #2=8/10 #3=7/10 #4=5/10 Funnily enough, even though it's my least favourite cover, the one I can't help looking at is #1, just the way the writing stands out and the colours.


message 41: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans @CaroB

2. I'm thinking the same thing.

3. I wanted to read Patrick and Frances Catherine's story too!

4. Good point about Iain being removed from the ladies. I'm glad he's not a hound dog, chasing after every pretty skirt though!

8. I got the same impression - had to wait for the boss-man's ok before they ate with a potential enemy. Also politeness (misguided though it may be), to wait for the head of the family to serve/eat before they do?

9. There's plenty to share, ladies!

11. I am too, but I'm just a tiny bit tired of heroines where every unattached male (and even some attached ones) immediately fall in lust with her. I know it works in this story! But I love stories where the heroine is more of a wallflower or plainer and the hero is able to see past that and love her for who she is.


message 42: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina @Sans

1. You're lucky to have friendships that have seen you through most of your life! It must have been very hard for you when your friend passed away :-(
2. I'm not feeling the love for Judith's mum either.
4. More secrets, you say? hmmm.. what could they be?
5. I thoguht that too; despite how terrible it was, it could've been so much worse!
6. lol, Good point!
9. *sighs* Ok, I guess I'll share...
10. Ditto. The only time I've disagreed is when I had an ex who was great for a laugh, but could never be serious. Too much of a good thing!


message 43: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina @Sans re:post #41

4. Hadn't thought of that!

11. I love, love, love those kinds of stories!


message 44: by Sans (new) - rated it 5 stars

Sans CaroB wrote: "@Sans re:post #41

11. I love, love, love those kinds of stories!"


Do you have any favourites like that? I'm always on the look out for more! I don't find them often enough.


message 45: by Lina (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina CaroB's Questions for Chapters 4 to 7

13. Given how Judith’s reaction to Cameron’s anger/shouting, why is she not scared of any of the Highlander’s she’s travelling with?

14 After reading “Through a Dark Mist” with you ladies, I am loving how readable this book is. I’m actually finding it hard to put down whereas I’d be quite happy to stop at the 2 chapter mark with TADM. Is anyone else finding this? Is it a completely unfair comparison?

15. Brodick openly states his interest in Judith when he asks Iain to let him know if he doesn’t want to keep her. What do you think of Brodick’s character at this stage? Are you surprised by his interest?

16. Is anyone else thinking that Judith is going to change the tradition of not many outsiders being allowed on Maitland land while she’s “visiting”? Oh, and that Agnes is going to need a b*tch-slap soon?

17. Talk about harsh, Iain telling Judith she places too much importance on herself! Why doesn’t Judith believe his apology? What do you think of the budding relationship and the hurdles they’re bound to face with the clan?

18. Judith as a midwife. Iain’s seen the ring. Any predictions on the trouble to come?



message 46: by Lina (last edited Sep 27, 2011 08:10PM) (new) - rated it 4 stars

Lina Sans wrote: "Do you have any favourites like that? I'm always on the look out for more! I don't find them often enough..."



Bet Me comes immediately to mind, but I'll have a proper look and see what you may have already read.


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Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments Lisa Kay’s Answers to CaroB's Questions for Chapters 4 to 7

13. Given how Judith’s reaction to Cameron’s anger/shouting, why is she not scared of any of the Highlander’s she’s travelling with?
I think she has a healthy sense of self. Plus, she knows that they are honorable men.

14 After reading “Through a Dark Mist” with you ladies, I am loving how readable this book is. I’m actually finding it hard to put down whereas I’d be quite happy to stop at the 2 chapter mark with TADM. Is anyone else finding this? Is it a completely unfair comparison?
I worried about us doing another medieval so soon, but yes, Garwood’s words flow. But it is more than that. She is magical. Some of her scenarios would have me rolling my eyes with other authors. She has that indefinable, intangible “something” that appeals to most readers of romance, across a wide age group. I am constantly amazed that I have to be “wait listed” for audiobooks of her historicals.

15. Brodick openly states his interest in Judith when he asks Iain to let him know if he doesn’t want to keep her. What do you think of Brodick’s character at this stage? Are you surprised by his interest?
I’m loving Brodick. He is curmudgeonly. I think he has his own book. I know his descendants do. I don’t blame him for not liking the English. Nope. Not surprised by his interest.

16. Is anyone else thinking that Judith is going to change the tradition of not many outsiders being allowed on Maitland land while she’s “visiting”? Oh, and that Agnes is going to need a b*tch-slap soon?
Yes. And, LOL, yes!

17. Talk about harsh, Iain telling Judith she places too much importance on herself! Why doesn’t Judith believe his apology? What do you think of the budding relationship and the hurdles they’re bound to face with the clan?
Poor Iain! He doesn’t know how to deal with his feelings about an Englishwoman. I think, as you say, there are going to be some showdowns.

18. Judith as a midwife. Iain’s seen the ring. Any predictions on the trouble to come?
That scene where he discovers the ring and his focused attention on his questions was a riot. "Then you may keep it." LOL! Talk about self-importance. He is going to figure it out soon! It will be interesting, but I think the “trouble” will be enjoyable to read.


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Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Sans

#1 – Sorry about your friend. I'm glad she had you for one, though.

#3 – I agree. He is a sweetie.

#5 – Ditto on everything you said, especially “At least he was never creepy child molester uncle!” It seems everyone goes here nowadays. Glad Garwood held back.

#6 – I agree with both you and CaroB. She just met the guy.

#7 – I think you’re right. She was more surprised than he was about that question. See, couples who were attracted to one another were trying to figure out how to work that “single status” into the conversation even way back then. Of course, Judith sort of popped it out compulsively. LOL!

#8 – I agree. The others were waiting for their cue from Iain. Except for Brodick, LOL!

#9 - (view spoiler)

#10 – If you are in a down mood, then you need someone to make you laugh.

#12 – You lost me Sugar Bean.


message 49: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 27, 2011 09:20PM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ CaroB

#1 – I have a few friends from high-school still, but even that is a “correspondence” relationship. Well, maybe a phone call a year.

#2 – I think your prediction is probable. Maitland + Maclean = trouble + Judith = Harmony.

#3 – I felt as you two did. Would have liked to read C.F & Patrick’s story.

#7 - "Judith. Iain and I came a close second! :-p" LMAO! Yes, me too.

#9 – I think Sans is right. Now that Shelly stepped out of this “buddy read” there is enough for all of us. LOL!

#10 – I’m with you and Sans. Humor ranks right near the top for me.

#11 – I haven’t laughed out loud yet either. But I find myself smiling a lot .

#12 – Soooo interesting! I love the first one. I had it at one time and lent it or lost it. I now have the second, and I don’t think it is very colorful. But I find people love it. It certainly looks like Iain’s home.


message 50: by Lisa Kay (last edited Sep 27, 2011 09:20PM) (new) - added it

Lisa Kay (lisakayalicemaria) | 15159 comments @ Sans
Post #41
#4 - "Good point about Iain being removed from the ladies. I'm glad he's not a hound dog, chasing after every pretty skirt though!"
Man-oh-man! Really!

#11 - "I know it works in this story!"
You are right, Sans! It works for this story. I’ll have to check my shelves and get back to you on great wallflower stories.


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