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McCabe Trilogy #2
Seduction of a Highland Lass
Maya Banks, the New York Times bestselling author of romance and romantic suspense has captivated readers with her steamy Scottish historical novels, perfect for fans of Julie Garwood. In Seduction of a Highland Lass, an indomitable Highland warrior is caught between loyalty and forbidden love.
Fiercely loyal to his elder brother, Alaric McCabe leads his clan in the fight for their birthright. Now he is prepared to wed for duty, as well. But on his way to claim the hand of Rionna McDonald, daughter of a neighboring chieftain, he is ambushed and left for dead. Miraculously, his life is saved by the soft touch of a Highland angel, a courageous beauty who will put to the test his fealty to his clan, his honor, and his deepest desires.
An outcast from her own clan, Keeley McDonald was betrayed by those she loved and trusted. When the wounded warrior falls from his horse, she is drawn to his strong, lean body. The wicked glint in his green eyes ignites a passion that will follow them back to Alaric’s keep, where their forbidden love draws them deeper into the pleasures of the flesh. But as conspiracy and danger circle closer, Alaric must make an impossible choice: Will he betray his blood ties for the woman he loves?
Fiercely loyal to his elder brother, Alaric McCabe leads his clan in the fight for their birthright. Now he is prepared to wed for duty, as well. But on his way to claim the hand of Rionna McDonald, daughter of a neighboring chieftain, he is ambushed and left for dead. Miraculously, his life is saved by the soft touch of a Highland angel, a courageous beauty who will put to the test his fealty to his clan, his honor, and his deepest desires.
An outcast from her own clan, Keeley McDonald was betrayed by those she loved and trusted. When the wounded warrior falls from his horse, she is drawn to his strong, lean body. The wicked glint in his green eyes ignites a passion that will follow them back to Alaric’s keep, where their forbidden love draws them deeper into the pleasures of the flesh. But as conspiracy and danger circle closer, Alaric must make an impossible choice: Will he betray his blood ties for the woman he loves?
323 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published September 27, 2011
753 people are currently reading
9221 people want to read
About the author
Maya Banks
251 books21.5k followersMaya Banks is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today and international bestselling author of over 50 novels. A wife and mother of three, she lives in Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,708 reviews
January 29, 2018
2.5 stars
Um.
It seemed a bit too much like a cheesy Lifetime Movie for it to be any fun. The dialogue was just too overblown & dramatic to seem real to me.
He called her Angel, & she called him Warrior...
Plus, they were both sooo horny when they were sick and/or injured.
Reeeeeeally? Tell me more about your magical sex drive.
Because, see, I don't know if you have ever been violently ill with a high fever, but I have. And, believe you me, there was absolutely no room for thoughts about the sexy-times.
I would love to tell you that I'm one of those alpha-moms, who gets the flu, but still soldiers on. But the truth?
I pray for death, & tell the kids to forage for their own food or starve. Because I could honestly care less if their tummies are rumbly. Microwave a corn dog and leave me alone, dammit!
This is only ONE of the many perks to no longer having small children!
I can't imagine what a wuss I'd be if I had to deal with a stab wound on top of it!
But I kinda doubt I'd be itching to have a make-out session.
Oh, and maybe it's just me (<--I doubt it), but how many of you ladies out there would be willing to kiss your man when he's been ill for a week or so?
Sick People breath is VILE!
Like melted plastic wrapped in rotten eggs...
Ok, even though I wasn't really on board with everything about this one, I still want to read the next book in the trilogy. I was actually hoping that this was the story about Rionna, the warrior chick, but...sadly, no . This one was about Keeley.
Whatever. I've read worse.
I'm not sure who I would recommend this one to, but it's not an unreadable story, and it did make me want to continue on with #3.
Um.
It seemed a bit too much like a cheesy Lifetime Movie for it to be any fun. The dialogue was just too overblown & dramatic to seem real to me.
He called her Angel, & she called him Warrior...
Plus, they were both sooo horny when they were sick and/or injured.
Reeeeeeally? Tell me more about your magical sex drive.
Because, see, I don't know if you have ever been violently ill with a high fever, but I have. And, believe you me, there was absolutely no room for thoughts about the sexy-times.
I would love to tell you that I'm one of those alpha-moms, who gets the flu, but still soldiers on. But the truth?
I pray for death, & tell the kids to forage for their own food or starve. Because I could honestly care less if their tummies are rumbly. Microwave a corn dog and leave me alone, dammit!
This is only ONE of the many perks to no longer having small children!
I can't imagine what a wuss I'd be if I had to deal with a stab wound on top of it!
But I kinda doubt I'd be itching to have a make-out session.
Oh, and maybe it's just me (<--I doubt it), but how many of you ladies out there would be willing to kiss your man when he's been ill for a week or so?
Sick People breath is VILE!
Like melted plastic wrapped in rotten eggs...
Ok, even though I wasn't really on board with everything about this one, I still want to read the next book in the trilogy. I was actually hoping that this was the story about Rionna, the warrior chick, but...sadly, no . This one was about Keeley.
Whatever. I've read worse.
I'm not sure who I would recommend this one to, but it's not an unreadable story, and it did make me want to continue on with #3.
February 27, 2017
You know the old saying "Cheaters never prosper"?
How come in romance novels that never seems to be true? And, why is it okay to cheat on the person you are betrothed to as long as you stop on your wedding day?
You say Crazy Bitch, I say Sensible Reaction.
So, Alaric is betrothed to the daughter of another Laird and is on his way to meet up with her when he is ambushed and almost killed. Keeley finds him and nurses him back to health. He's hot-stuff, and unconscious, so she gets a little closer than she should. He's delirious and feverish, so he gets closer than he should. That's all fine.
But, when he is better and she finds out that he is marrying someone else, they should both leave each other alone because... uh, human decency? Yeah, they don't have that. Instead, they decide it's best to have an affair until he gets married because that's going to end well. In the history of bad ideas, this one is right up there along with this:
Dress up as a zebra, they said. It will get you closer to the wildlife, they said. It will be fun, they said...
And, by all means, if you are going to back out of a wedding, make sure you wait until you are literally supposed to say your vows. Don't even consider breaking up with her beforehand in order to spare her the humiliation. She deserves to be humiliated for considering marrying your ass.
Unfortunately, I did like the book in spite of this, but I liked it under protest.
How come in romance novels that never seems to be true? And, why is it okay to cheat on the person you are betrothed to as long as you stop on your wedding day?
You say Crazy Bitch, I say Sensible Reaction.
So, Alaric is betrothed to the daughter of another Laird and is on his way to meet up with her when he is ambushed and almost killed. Keeley finds him and nurses him back to health. He's hot-stuff, and unconscious, so she gets a little closer than she should. He's delirious and feverish, so he gets closer than he should. That's all fine.
But, when he is better and she finds out that he is marrying someone else, they should both leave each other alone because... uh, human decency? Yeah, they don't have that. Instead, they decide it's best to have an affair until he gets married because that's going to end well. In the history of bad ideas, this one is right up there along with this:
Dress up as a zebra, they said. It will get you closer to the wildlife, they said. It will be fun, they said...
And, by all means, if you are going to back out of a wedding, make sure you wait until you are literally supposed to say your vows. Don't even consider breaking up with her beforehand in order to spare her the humiliation. She deserves to be humiliated for considering marrying your ass.
Unfortunately, I did like the book in spite of this, but I liked it under protest.
August 17, 2021
not a fan of the usage of maidenhead or really any of the language surrounding the sex scenes (spurting, sipping???). i also don't really like ye olden day hookups. too much at risk for the women so it doesn't really read as romantic, more so lazy on the man's part.
anyway didn't love this. just wanted to give maya banks' historical a try. not my thing, no biggie!
anyway didn't love this. just wanted to give maya banks' historical a try. not my thing, no biggie!
June 9, 2015
His cock slid over her entrance and then stabbed deep.
Stabbed? STABBED?! Okay, listen... When I am reading a romance book I expect some things. For instance, I expect the sex between the hero and heroine to be romantic. Loving. Like two human beings who care about each other trying to make each other feel good. I really don't feel like this is too much to ask.
The sex in here is just horrible. It's atrocious. I was disgusted and revolted and recoiling - which is NOT what I want from romance book sex scenes. I want to be like, "Awwww, this is cute/sweet/romantic" but also like "oh, this is hot/exciting." FAIL. Total fail on both counts. I really think perhaps Banks has been watching too much porn and has kind of lost the thread as to what (the majority) of women are going to want from a romance novel sex scene. (REMEMBER: This is NOT erotica. Romance. NOT erotica.)
If descriptions such as the one at the start of this review, coupled with stuff like ejaculating on a woman's face and breasts, having a woman give a blow job while she's tied up... I don't know, stuff like that - makes you excited... THAT IS TOTALLY FINE. This is the book for you, enjoy.
If, however, you want a hero who treats the heroine more like person he has feelings for and less like a porn star (read: personal fucktoy) perhaps you'd best look elsewhere.
Freely admit I am a vanilla-type woman. So... perhaps I'm on the outside of what is popular right now. However, I was just cringing at the way he was treating her especially since she was a virgin yesterday. o.O I just can't with this shit. I expect this in erotica, but not my historical Highlander romances!
How's the story?
Actually, the story is excellent. If you just cut out all of the sex scenes or just skipped over them, I think this would be a charming novel. Banks writes a great story and she is especially skilled at tugging on your heartstrings. And Alaric is much less of a shitheel than his brother Ewan. So the story is actually decent.
The sex ruins everything.
If you want GOOD Maya Banks, I'd highly recommend Never Seduce a Scot or Highlander Most Wanted.
ONE REAL STAR, ONE ROMANCE STAR
Stabbed? STABBED?! Okay, listen... When I am reading a romance book I expect some things. For instance, I expect the sex between the hero and heroine to be romantic. Loving. Like two human beings who care about each other trying to make each other feel good. I really don't feel like this is too much to ask.
The sex in here is just horrible. It's atrocious. I was disgusted and revolted and recoiling - which is NOT what I want from romance book sex scenes. I want to be like, "Awwww, this is cute/sweet/romantic" but also like "oh, this is hot/exciting." FAIL. Total fail on both counts. I really think perhaps Banks has been watching too much porn and has kind of lost the thread as to what (the majority) of women are going to want from a romance novel sex scene. (REMEMBER: This is NOT erotica. Romance. NOT erotica.)
If descriptions such as the one at the start of this review, coupled with stuff like ejaculating on a woman's face and breasts, having a woman give a blow job while she's tied up... I don't know, stuff like that - makes you excited... THAT IS TOTALLY FINE. This is the book for you, enjoy.
If, however, you want a hero who treats the heroine more like person he has feelings for and less like a porn star (read: personal fucktoy) perhaps you'd best look elsewhere.
Freely admit I am a vanilla-type woman. So... perhaps I'm on the outside of what is popular right now. However, I was just cringing at the way he was treating her especially since she was a virgin yesterday. o.O I just can't with this shit. I expect this in erotica, but not my historical Highlander romances!
How's the story?
Actually, the story is excellent. If you just cut out all of the sex scenes or just skipped over them, I think this would be a charming novel. Banks writes a great story and she is especially skilled at tugging on your heartstrings. And Alaric is much less of a shitheel than his brother Ewan. So the story is actually decent.
The sex ruins everything.
If you want GOOD Maya Banks, I'd highly recommend Never Seduce a Scot or Highlander Most Wanted.
ONE REAL STAR, ONE ROMANCE STAR
August 28, 2013
4 Fabulous Stars!!!
Another fantastic and captivating read by the very talented Maya Banks. I LOVE her historical romances!
Another fantastic and captivating read by the very talented Maya Banks. I LOVE her historical romances!
May 8, 2023
3,5 ❤️🩹💘💘⭐️s
The story of Alaric and Keeley was entertaining and engaging, even though the depth was only average.
They shared great chemistry and passion, but any romance between the two of them was very short. It would have been better if there had been more communication between the two of them, rather than erotic scenes or scenes of sickness and injury.
I was amazed at how quickly the characters healed and recovered from their injuries. 🤨
I will definitely read the next part!
The story of Alaric and Keeley was entertaining and engaging, even though the depth was only average.
They shared great chemistry and passion, but any romance between the two of them was very short. It would have been better if there had been more communication between the two of them, rather than erotic scenes or scenes of sickness and injury.
I was amazed at how quickly the characters healed and recovered from their injuries. 🤨
I will definitely read the next part!
September 10, 2013
Did I love this book? Lordy, yes I did!!! Is it deserving of the 5 star rating? You betcha! Did I read this book just to get to the awesomeness that is Rionna McDonald's story? Ummmm...well...YES! And I'm not even a little bit sorry, and I was in no way disappointed. Keely and Alaric's story was 5 star worthy all on it's own!
December 23, 2012
OMG OMG OMG!!! This book had me crying! I loved these two equally (that rarely happens to me), I loved Keeley so much, she loved Alaric, and more then once puts his needs and the needs of the clan before her own. All she wanted was to belong somewhere, and once she did, she was loyal to her clan.
And Alaric, never expecting to meet someone who captures his heart the way Keeley does before he is to marry someone else. but of course he knows he cannot break off the betrothal. They cannot deny their attractions and feelings for each other and meet in secret before Alaric's wedding. And the passion between them is hot!
There was action in this book as well, and Ewan and Mairin have their baby.....awww... *crying*
And then the day arrives for Alaric;s wedding to Rionna...and then it happens...oh my god no!! *more crying*
but damn the bad guy gets away again....so I am going after him right now and diving into the third book!! he won't get away from me!!
And Alaric, never expecting to meet someone who captures his heart the way Keeley does before he is to marry someone else. but of course he knows he cannot break off the betrothal. They cannot deny their attractions and feelings for each other and meet in secret before Alaric's wedding. And the passion between them is hot!
There was action in this book as well, and Ewan and Mairin have their baby.....awww... *crying*
And then the day arrives for Alaric;s wedding to Rionna...and then it happens...oh my god no!! *more crying*
but damn the bad guy gets away again....so I am going after him right now and diving into the third book!! he won't get away from me!!
August 30, 2012
Posted onUnder the Covers
In the simplest words possible....I loved this book!
Seduction of a Highland Lass is the second book of the McCabe trilogy by Maya Banks and while I loved and gave 5 stars to In Bed with a Highlander, this book tops it with its passionately fierce love story.
This is Alaric McCabe’s story. Having not read the blurb for this one before opening it up and reading it, I still thought Alaric’s heroine would be Rionna, McDonald’s warrior daughter as was mentioned in the first book. However, upon reading a few chapters of this book, it was clear that Banks had someone else in mind for Alaric. And wow, what a great match it is!
From what I could remember of Alaric in the first book, he was a fierce warrior, willing to give up his own happiness for the good of his clan and brothers. He is betrothed to Rionna McDonald of a neighbouring clan in an effort to gain alliance against Cameron. Alaric is both honourable and loyal, two important characters that every highland warrior should have and I fell hard for him. He was simply too good to be true. I had no idea how sweet he could be. When he's en route to McDonald’s land and is attacked, his horse brings him injured and dying to Keely’s front steps.
Keely is a healer who lives alone in a small house after being banished by the McDonald clan. You find out the reason why she was banished later on in the book and it is tragic. Keely is a strong, smart woman who doesn’t allow the likes of Alaric or his brothers to intimidate her. I absolutely loved her tenacity and willingness to put her foot down when things got rough. The heroines in this series keep their men on their toes.
Alaric and Keely’s romance is dynamite. There has never been a more passionate love than theirs. Though Alaric is set to marry another woman, both of them are unwilling to deny their blooming affections for one another. And so they indulge, and it’s really one of the best things I’ve read in awhile.
However, there is a time for goodbye and it broke my heart to read some of these pages. Highlander romance fans will not want to miss this epic love story. It’s simply too good to pass up.
In the simplest words possible....I loved this book!
Seduction of a Highland Lass is the second book of the McCabe trilogy by Maya Banks and while I loved and gave 5 stars to In Bed with a Highlander, this book tops it with its passionately fierce love story.
This is Alaric McCabe’s story. Having not read the blurb for this one before opening it up and reading it, I still thought Alaric’s heroine would be Rionna, McDonald’s warrior daughter as was mentioned in the first book. However, upon reading a few chapters of this book, it was clear that Banks had someone else in mind for Alaric. And wow, what a great match it is!
From what I could remember of Alaric in the first book, he was a fierce warrior, willing to give up his own happiness for the good of his clan and brothers. He is betrothed to Rionna McDonald of a neighbouring clan in an effort to gain alliance against Cameron. Alaric is both honourable and loyal, two important characters that every highland warrior should have and I fell hard for him. He was simply too good to be true. I had no idea how sweet he could be. When he's en route to McDonald’s land and is attacked, his horse brings him injured and dying to Keely’s front steps.
Keely is a healer who lives alone in a small house after being banished by the McDonald clan. You find out the reason why she was banished later on in the book and it is tragic. Keely is a strong, smart woman who doesn’t allow the likes of Alaric or his brothers to intimidate her. I absolutely loved her tenacity and willingness to put her foot down when things got rough. The heroines in this series keep their men on their toes.
Alaric and Keely’s romance is dynamite. There has never been a more passionate love than theirs. Though Alaric is set to marry another woman, both of them are unwilling to deny their blooming affections for one another. And so they indulge, and it’s really one of the best things I’ve read in awhile.
However, there is a time for goodbye and it broke my heart to read some of these pages. Highlander romance fans will not want to miss this epic love story. It’s simply too good to pass up.
October 13, 2011
Wowee! I absolute ADORED this book, more so than the first installment. It's so romantic and it definitely tugged at the heart strings and made me grab the tissues on occasion. Alaric and Keeley are just so good together. This book definitely put a big smile on my face. Oh how I love the McCabe warriors *sigh* Now the agonizing wait for Caelen's story.
Maya Banks you've done a wonderful job in creating these beautiful characters, that I've grown to love, for that I thank you.
Maya Banks you've done a wonderful job in creating these beautiful characters, that I've grown to love, for that I thank you.
August 16, 2016
***Review will follow***
June 10, 2012
Seduction of a Highland Lass: 5 Star book that everyone should read, amazing
Unfortunately, I have a problem. I am no where near good enough to be writing a review for such a perfect book. I mean, seriously, I am unworthy. Here are some facts
1. I've only actually reread about a dozen or so novels. I don't generally reread
2. I don't do series, and not back to back. There are some exceptions like Kresley Cole. And while i do read books in series, I usually never complete series.
Whelp, this book is my exception. I read this book, and found myself rereading it right afterwards. HOW CRAZY IS THAT. I have never done that. And, I'm about to actually finish a series, which I haven't done in a while too! Anyways, this book has a fiercely permanent spot in my life.
5 Reasons I need you to pick up this book and proceed to devour it
1. The sex
I'm cutting right to the chase here. Maya Banks could write me a love live ANYDAY. What I really adore about her writing of these matters is her ability to meld hedonism, savage abandon, love, and privacy. As weird as this is going to sound, she kept the sex very honorable. I find in many romance novels that the hero often uses the heroine's uncontrolable lust for him in order to get his way in all mattersfifty shades of grey I've never really liked that. I always hated seeing someone who at one point was so strong turn into a simpering mess when she needed a level head. The heroine and hero in this novel had sex because they both wanted to, because they loved each other, respected each other, needed each other. They never used it as a weapon. I appreciated that.
2. The Balance between History and Romance
Now, I understand if this category is rather odd. However, I really think it needs to be pointed out. When I pick up a historical romance book, I am not trying to read a history textbook. If I wanted that, I'd go sit in a European History lecture hall. At the same time, I don't need you lie to be as if the 17th century was this amazingly modern, clean, and honorable time period, because that is a lie. Maya Banks did a nice job of creating a believable setting that did not in any way over power the romance.
3. Hero: Alaric
Where do I effing start. I mean, he is everything a hero should be and could ever want to be. Here is what made Alaric stand out among other heroes. He was not perfect and he did not have all the answers. His relationship was not good for his clan or his brothers. He was willing, though with great sacrifice, to give up all he ever wanted in order to help his people. It wasn't like he suddenly realized he loved her, know he knew early on. He knew and he admitted it. Yet, he went up there like a sacrificial lamb and was prepared to do what needed to be done. The things he uttered were heart breaking, heart warming, so expressive. I am doing Alaric no justice. I am in no way exaggerating when I say this book is a must. Authors should take notes and see what a perfect hero is like.
The dialoge/unspoken dialoge
Maya banks wrote her ass off. She did not waste a word. Everything uttered between the heroine and the hero was important and served a greater purpose. This is the main reason I had to reread this novel immediatly. I wanted my eyes to feast again upon the amazing blend of words she put on each page. The dialogue was perfection. I found myself so immersed in what was happening. I didn't think about what had happened in the past pages or what was going to happen in the future. I read each page and savored every one. I felt sooooo much pain for the two lovers who could not be together, the situation was near unbearable to read.
5. Everything else
Self explanatory.
Dear me, I cannot relate to you guys how amazing this book is. Excuse my review, It doesn't do the book justice. Truth is, im not even really trying that hard because I just don't want to. I don't feel like pouring myself into a review that won't really do the book justice. All i can say is, everyone reads books that suck. Often, we read books we know from the beginning are nothing but fluff and will never have a chance of being a five star read. Given all the fodder we often allow ourselves to indulge in, I see no reason why someone would not give this book a chance. Its worth it! Believe it or not, there is one minor imperfection in this novel. There is no epilogue. I really wanted an epilogue full of healthy and hardy bairn, but all is well. My couple got to be together and I really couldn't ask for more from this novel. Its the book that keeps on giving
Casting
Hero:Alaric- Super hot, long hair, soulful eyes
[image error]
Heroine:Keely
[image error]
Also: Perfect song for this book is
Strangers in the Night by Frank Sinatra
Unfortunately, I have a problem. I am no where near good enough to be writing a review for such a perfect book. I mean, seriously, I am unworthy. Here are some facts
1. I've only actually reread about a dozen or so novels. I don't generally reread
2. I don't do series, and not back to back. There are some exceptions like Kresley Cole. And while i do read books in series, I usually never complete series.
Whelp, this book is my exception. I read this book, and found myself rereading it right afterwards. HOW CRAZY IS THAT. I have never done that. And, I'm about to actually finish a series, which I haven't done in a while too! Anyways, this book has a fiercely permanent spot in my life.
5 Reasons I need you to pick up this book and proceed to devour it
1. The sex
I'm cutting right to the chase here. Maya Banks could write me a love live ANYDAY. What I really adore about her writing of these matters is her ability to meld hedonism, savage abandon, love, and privacy. As weird as this is going to sound, she kept the sex very honorable. I find in many romance novels that the hero often uses the heroine's uncontrolable lust for him in order to get his way in all matters
2. The Balance between History and Romance
Now, I understand if this category is rather odd. However, I really think it needs to be pointed out. When I pick up a historical romance book, I am not trying to read a history textbook. If I wanted that, I'd go sit in a European History lecture hall. At the same time, I don't need you lie to be as if the 17th century was this amazingly modern, clean, and honorable time period, because that is a lie. Maya Banks did a nice job of creating a believable setting that did not in any way over power the romance.
3. Hero: Alaric
Where do I effing start. I mean, he is everything a hero should be and could ever want to be. Here is what made Alaric stand out among other heroes. He was not perfect and he did not have all the answers. His relationship was not good for his clan or his brothers. He was willing, though with great sacrifice, to give up all he ever wanted in order to help his people. It wasn't like he suddenly realized he loved her, know he knew early on. He knew and he admitted it. Yet, he went up there like a sacrificial lamb and was prepared to do what needed to be done. The things he uttered were heart breaking, heart warming, so expressive. I am doing Alaric no justice. I am in no way exaggerating when I say this book is a must. Authors should take notes and see what a perfect hero is like.
The dialoge/unspoken dialoge
Maya banks wrote her ass off. She did not waste a word. Everything uttered between the heroine and the hero was important and served a greater purpose. This is the main reason I had to reread this novel immediatly. I wanted my eyes to feast again upon the amazing blend of words she put on each page. The dialogue was perfection. I found myself so immersed in what was happening. I didn't think about what had happened in the past pages or what was going to happen in the future. I read each page and savored every one. I felt sooooo much pain for the two lovers who could not be together, the situation was near unbearable to read.
5. Everything else
Self explanatory.
Dear me, I cannot relate to you guys how amazing this book is. Excuse my review, It doesn't do the book justice. Truth is, im not even really trying that hard because I just don't want to. I don't feel like pouring myself into a review that won't really do the book justice. All i can say is, everyone reads books that suck. Often, we read books we know from the beginning are nothing but fluff and will never have a chance of being a five star read. Given all the fodder we often allow ourselves to indulge in, I see no reason why someone would not give this book a chance. Its worth it! Believe it or not, there is one minor imperfection in this novel. There is no epilogue. I really wanted an epilogue full of healthy and hardy bairn, but all is well. My couple got to be together and I really couldn't ask for more from this novel. Its the book that keeps on giving
Casting
Hero:Alaric- Super hot, long hair, soulful eyes
[image error]
Heroine:Keely
[image error]
Also: Perfect song for this book is
Strangers in the Night by Frank Sinatra
December 1, 2015
I am really not happy! I cried ALL DAY reading this book!!! How did all of my GR friends love this book?! I guess people love to have their heart ripped out for 95% of a book. I may have been that way in the past, but not anymore. Not that I regret reading it. I want to complete the series and it was important to me to read this middle book.
The book was good, but so very angsty. Even though I knew fully well that it would have a happy ending I still cried for most of it. I could not enjoy the sex scenes because they felt wrong. I was so mad at the hero for not renouncing his engagement (an arranged marriage) even though I understood why he was martyring himself. It was just all so sad and depressing. Her having to watch him "court" his betrothed. Oh hell no!!!! Granted the courting consisted of a couple of walks and held hands, but still. Her having to agree to be there for the birth of his child with his future wife (her former best friend)? F@*k no!!!! It was horrible. HORRIBLE!!!!
The heroine was a SAINT!!! Move over Mother Teresa, Kiely has you beat by a mile. I bow down to you.
Even for all of my dispairs, I understood their martyrdom and did not hate the hero for what he did, but I did not love him either. Do not worry, it does work out and the jilted bride does not really care. It wasn't like they even knew each other.
I believe people who read historicals are much more used to this type of plot and probably enjoy it a lot more.
Safety gang safe but other triggers are: technically a triangle since he is engaged to another. He holds hands with OW and courts her. I do not believe he kissed her. This is not resolved until the VERY end of the book. So there is no relief to the angst.
The book was good, but so very angsty. Even though I knew fully well that it would have a happy ending I still cried for most of it. I could not enjoy the sex scenes because they felt wrong. I was so mad at the hero for not renouncing his engagement (an arranged marriage) even though I understood why he was martyring himself. It was just all so sad and depressing. Her having to watch him "court" his betrothed. Oh hell no!!!! Granted the courting consisted of a couple of walks and held hands, but still. Her having to agree to be there for the birth of his child with his future wife (her former best friend)? F@*k no!!!! It was horrible. HORRIBLE!!!!
The heroine was a SAINT!!! Move over Mother Teresa, Kiely has you beat by a mile. I bow down to you.
Even for all of my dispairs, I understood their martyrdom and did not hate the hero for what he did, but I did not love him either. Do not worry, it does work out and the jilted bride does not really care. It wasn't like they even knew each other.
I believe people who read historicals are much more used to this type of plot and probably enjoy it a lot more.
Safety gang safe but other triggers are: technically a triangle since he is engaged to another. He holds hands with OW and courts her. I do not believe he kissed her. This is not resolved until the VERY end of the book. So there is no relief to the angst.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 26, 2020
During this pandemic, it is good to have a cheesy, lazy, hot sex kind of romance. The book that I can just read without thinking or guessing too much. Just go with the flow. And that's ia what I get from Miss Banks.
Seduction of Highland Lass is a beach read romance. A lazy day romance. And interlude after a heavy reading. Since I can not go to the beach, I listen to this audiobook while lounging on my sofa.
I enlist the next book, because I know down the line, I need another story like this.
3 stars
Seduction of Highland Lass is a beach read romance. A lazy day romance. And interlude after a heavy reading. Since I can not go to the beach, I listen to this audiobook while lounging on my sofa.
I enlist the next book, because I know down the line, I need another story like this.
3 stars
November 25, 2014
I just can't get enough!!!! Highlanders ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Wow !!!!! I absolutely loved this one !!!!
Wow !!!!! I absolutely loved this one !!!!
October 7, 2011
Story Rating 4 stars
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 5 stars
Heat Level 4 stars
Overall Rating 4.5 stars
This was a very good read for me and I am crazy with want of the next book, LOL. I certainly hope that Maya Banks continues writing historical's because she writes them just the way I love them most.
The Characters in this book all deserve 5 stars. The heroine Keeley was so selfless and honorable. You could not help but love her. The Hero Alaric was also honorable and you really could feel his love for her leaping off of the pages.
This book got very emotional for me at one point and I was balling like a baby. Maya made me feel so much for these characters and that to me is amazing writing.
Of course the love scenes were very hot and sensual.
I also loved the fact that all the characters from book 1 were also in this book so you really do need to read these book's in order.
The bad guy from book 1 ( In Bed With Highlander ) is still running about, so I'm thinking in book 3 there will be more action. That was the only thing that lacked for me in this story, the action. Other than that it was a very good read.
Character Rating 5 stars
Romance Rating 5 stars
Heat Level 4 stars
Overall Rating 4.5 stars
This was a very good read for me and I am crazy with want of the next book, LOL. I certainly hope that Maya Banks continues writing historical's because she writes them just the way I love them most.
The Characters in this book all deserve 5 stars. The heroine Keeley was so selfless and honorable. You could not help but love her. The Hero Alaric was also honorable and you really could feel his love for her leaping off of the pages.
This book got very emotional for me at one point and I was balling like a baby. Maya made me feel so much for these characters and that to me is amazing writing.
Of course the love scenes were very hot and sensual.
I also loved the fact that all the characters from book 1 were also in this book so you really do need to read these book's in order.
The bad guy from book 1 ( In Bed With Highlander ) is still running about, so I'm thinking in book 3 there will be more action. That was the only thing that lacked for me in this story, the action. Other than that it was a very good read.
April 17, 2016
Now this is what you call an epic love story!!
MaCabe trilogy was my very first Adult/Historical Romance. Didn't care much about the first book, it had a week heroine, a doucheface hero, and a very frustrating "love story". The only character i cared about was Alaric McCabe! He is sweet, he is funny and he is not an "alpha male" (whatever does that mean). I didn't know each brother gets his own book, i still decided to pick this up just for him. Imagine my surprise when i realized the whole damn book was about him! And him alone.
Keely on the other hand was a pleasant surprise, she was so unlike Mairin. She is feisty, she's got her healing skills and she isn't afraid to speak her mind. You mess with that one, she gonna slap you back. Her whole thing with Alaric was so cute, and heartbreaking. I even started shipping her with Caelen! The ending was beautiful, broke my heart in the best way possible. Did i mention how hot the sex was? HOT! HOT! HOT!
It had me like...
MaCabe trilogy was my very first Adult/Historical Romance. Didn't care much about the first book, it had a week heroine, a doucheface hero, and a very frustrating "love story". The only character i cared about was Alaric McCabe! He is sweet, he is funny and he is not an "alpha male" (whatever does that mean). I didn't know each brother gets his own book, i still decided to pick this up just for him. Imagine my surprise when i realized the whole damn book was about him! And him alone.
Keely on the other hand was a pleasant surprise, she was so unlike Mairin. She is feisty, she's got her healing skills and she isn't afraid to speak her mind. You mess with that one, she gonna slap you back. Her whole thing with Alaric was so cute, and heartbreaking. I even started shipping her with Caelen! The ending was beautiful, broke my heart in the best way possible. Did i mention how hot the sex was? HOT! HOT! HOT!
It had me like...
May 7, 2020
5+ stars for Alaric McCabe!
“Shh, lass, ’tis just beginning. Be at ease. Let me love you.”
I knew in book one that this one was going to be my fave! Alaric was everything, and did ALL the things that ring my bells if you get my meaning. This story had everything.
A wounded highlander healed, and brought back “by an Angel.” Insert Keeley McDonald. She nursed him to health, and he fell hard for her. Only problem was he was betrothed to another to help save his clan. The heart wants what it wants though, aye?
So much angst, and so much steam! I read parts that made my toes curl because the scenes were just so well written.
When they kissed or were together, it was like this every single time.
“He swallowed her breath, savored it, and then returned it. It was as if he breathed her. Absorbed her into his body and she became a living part of him.” *insert chills*
“You’re mine,” he uttered. “Mine. You belong to me. No man will ever have you as I’ve had you this night.”
Alaric is mine. That is all. I love him so much!
“Never have I acted thusly with a woman,” he admitted as he stroked her hair. “ ’Tis something primitive within me that roars at me to claim you, to make you mine and to mark you in some permanent way.”
Can’t wait to dive into the third, and final book & brother. I love these men.
“Shh, lass, ’tis just beginning. Be at ease. Let me love you.”
I knew in book one that this one was going to be my fave! Alaric was everything, and did ALL the things that ring my bells if you get my meaning. This story had everything.
A wounded highlander healed, and brought back “by an Angel.” Insert Keeley McDonald. She nursed him to health, and he fell hard for her. Only problem was he was betrothed to another to help save his clan. The heart wants what it wants though, aye?
So much angst, and so much steam! I read parts that made my toes curl because the scenes were just so well written.
When they kissed or were together, it was like this every single time.
“He swallowed her breath, savored it, and then returned it. It was as if he breathed her. Absorbed her into his body and she became a living part of him.” *insert chills*
“You’re mine,” he uttered. “Mine. You belong to me. No man will ever have you as I’ve had you this night.”
Alaric is mine. That is all. I love him so much!
“Never have I acted thusly with a woman,” he admitted as he stroked her hair. “ ’Tis something primitive within me that roars at me to claim you, to make you mine and to mark you in some permanent way.”
Can’t wait to dive into the third, and final book & brother. I love these men.
August 25, 2021
Seduction of a Highland Lass was………..
Seriously, my opinion of this book shillyshallied between ‘okay’ and ‘meh.’
On a whim, I picked up a historical medieval romance involving a Highlander (and, full embarrassing disclosure: I had no idea what a 'highlander' was and had to google it) and LOVED it. Then I read another and loved that one even more!!!! Then I read this one and was frankly underwhelmed.
It just didn’t deliver the way the other books by Maya Banks did.
First off, this story, while not long, was still way too long. The timeline moved slowly and there was way too much detail involving the secondary McCabe clan members. I didn’t give a crap about the side romance between Christina (was that even her name?? I didn’t care enough to remember) and the guard dude she was crushing on. I grew tired of reading about Mairin’s pregnancy and how close she was to giving birth every few pages. And honestly, this book had too much sex in it and not enough substance between Alaric and Keeley (probably because it took 65 pages for them to really even interact).
I don’t know about you, but I had a big problem with Alaric. The conflict in this book lies in the fact that Alaric is supposed to marry Rionna, a daughter of a laird from another clan. He’s pretty apathetic toward the idea but will go through with it in order to help his clan stand up against some bad guy and also because by marrying Rionna, he will get to be a laird himself (something he wouldn’t be able to do if he stayed on the McCabe land). But then he meets Keeley, who saves his life and because of plot trajectory, ends up on working as a healer for the McCabes. Alaric and Keeley catch major feelings for one another but they both know that Alaric has to marry Rionna. Alaric suggests that they spend time together enjoying one another (aka doin' the deed) while they can before he has to marry.
I’m sorry but……
In order to be a decent guy, Alaric really had only two options:
1. Leave Keeley alone and marry Rionna; or
2. Refuse to marry Rionna and get down with Keeley.
But since Alaric is a selfish and lusty warrior, he creates option 3: bone Keeley a bunch and then marry Rionna.
Excuse me, but EWWWWWWWWWWW.
I don’t care if Alaric loved Keeley, in fact, that makes it WORSE. Alaric put his own feelings of love and lust above Keeley’s heart and that just wasn’t right. Furthermore, making it extra ‘ew-worthy,’ Alaric would talk about his future children with Rionna but then lay claim to Keeley saying that he owned her heart and no man would ever touch her the way he did.
So, what? Alaric gets to ride into the sunset unscathed with a new bride and a new title, meanwhile Keeley gets left behind to spend the rest of her life ALONE????
Toward the end, Alaric tells Keeley that he hopes she will find a good many to marry and love but honestly that sentiment came too late in the game for me to change my opinion of Alaric.
I get that a lot of the angst existed to move the plot along, but I couldn’t get behind this book much. I mainly just felt bad for Keeley when I wasn’t feeling bored from reading about the rest of the McCabes.
Anyway, 2-2.5 stars.
Seriously, my opinion of this book shillyshallied between ‘okay’ and ‘meh.’
On a whim, I picked up a historical medieval romance involving a Highlander (and, full embarrassing disclosure: I had no idea what a 'highlander' was and had to google it) and LOVED it. Then I read another and loved that one even more!!!! Then I read this one and was frankly underwhelmed.
It just didn’t deliver the way the other books by Maya Banks did.
First off, this story, while not long, was still way too long. The timeline moved slowly and there was way too much detail involving the secondary McCabe clan members. I didn’t give a crap about the side romance between Christina (was that even her name?? I didn’t care enough to remember) and the guard dude she was crushing on. I grew tired of reading about Mairin’s pregnancy and how close she was to giving birth every few pages. And honestly, this book had too much sex in it and not enough substance between Alaric and Keeley (probably because it took 65 pages for them to really even interact).
I don’t know about you, but I had a big problem with Alaric. The conflict in this book lies in the fact that Alaric is supposed to marry Rionna, a daughter of a laird from another clan. He’s pretty apathetic toward the idea but will go through with it in order to help his clan stand up against some bad guy and also because by marrying Rionna, he will get to be a laird himself (something he wouldn’t be able to do if he stayed on the McCabe land). But then he meets Keeley, who saves his life and because of plot trajectory, ends up on working as a healer for the McCabes. Alaric and Keeley catch major feelings for one another but they both know that Alaric has to marry Rionna. Alaric suggests that they spend time together enjoying one another (aka doin' the deed) while they can before he has to marry.
I’m sorry but……
In order to be a decent guy, Alaric really had only two options:
1. Leave Keeley alone and marry Rionna; or
2. Refuse to marry Rionna and get down with Keeley.
But since Alaric is a selfish and lusty warrior, he creates option 3: bone Keeley a bunch and then marry Rionna.
Excuse me, but EWWWWWWWWWWW.
I don’t care if Alaric loved Keeley, in fact, that makes it WORSE. Alaric put his own feelings of love and lust above Keeley’s heart and that just wasn’t right. Furthermore, making it extra ‘ew-worthy,’ Alaric would talk about his future children with Rionna but then lay claim to Keeley saying that he owned her heart and no man would ever touch her the way he did.
So, what? Alaric gets to ride into the sunset unscathed with a new bride and a new title, meanwhile Keeley gets left behind to spend the rest of her life ALONE????
Toward the end, Alaric tells Keeley that he hopes she will find a good many to marry and love but honestly that sentiment came too late in the game for me to change my opinion of Alaric.
I get that a lot of the angst existed to move the plot along, but I couldn’t get behind this book much. I mainly just felt bad for Keeley when I wasn’t feeling bored from reading about the rest of the McCabes.
Anyway, 2-2.5 stars.
January 30, 2012
This series just gets better! I love an ‘ injured hero being saved by a heroine’ plot, and this one delivered. But what I really love are romances where the hero and heroine must overcome impossible odds, and that is what made this one such a winner for me. Of course you know these two will get their HEA, but how they will make it work was a huge question! Alaric McCabe is betrothed to the daughter of a neighboring laird, and this vital alliance must be made. The King himself demands the alliance.
When Alaric McCabe is gravely injured after his men are attacked in the middle of the night, he barely escapes on his horse. Keeley McDonald, an outcast living alone in a small remote shack, discovers Alaric barely alive and uses her healing skills to save him. These two are immediately drawn to each other, but Alaric must remember his future is with another.
The author is Maya Banks, so you can count on some great steamy love scenes too. And it delivered! I’m not a fan of BDSM, but Ms Banks even treats us to a hot sexy scene with a wee bit of bondage done Highlander style. YUM, HOT, and WOW!
As I mentioned in my review for In Bed with a Highlander, I wasn’t a fan of this author as I assumed (wrongly) that all of her books must be like Colters' Woman, a book I really didn’t care for. Despite so many people saying her writing is completely different I held off on reading this series. I should have listened to everyone earlier, because this series is just pure fun to read. Do they have plot holes? Oh yes, you’ll need to stretch your imagination in places and just accept a few things as real even when you know how unlikely they would be in a real situation. But that is the fun when reading a sexy, highlander romance novel. It's not a fluff read, so be sure to have some Kleenex toward the end.
When Alaric McCabe is gravely injured after his men are attacked in the middle of the night, he barely escapes on his horse. Keeley McDonald, an outcast living alone in a small remote shack, discovers Alaric barely alive and uses her healing skills to save him. These two are immediately drawn to each other, but Alaric must remember his future is with another.
The author is Maya Banks, so you can count on some great steamy love scenes too. And it delivered! I’m not a fan of BDSM, but Ms Banks even treats us to a hot sexy scene with a wee bit of bondage done Highlander style. YUM, HOT, and WOW!
As I mentioned in my review for In Bed with a Highlander, I wasn’t a fan of this author as I assumed (wrongly) that all of her books must be like Colters' Woman, a book I really didn’t care for. Despite so many people saying her writing is completely different I held off on reading this series. I should have listened to everyone earlier, because this series is just pure fun to read. Do they have plot holes? Oh yes, you’ll need to stretch your imagination in places and just accept a few things as real even when you know how unlikely they would be in a real situation. But that is the fun when reading a sexy, highlander romance novel. It's not a fluff read, so be sure to have some Kleenex toward the end.
June 9, 2015
***4.75 Stars***
"Isn't any time better than none at all? Isn't a taste of sweet better than a lifetime of bitter regret?"
Alaric and Keeley stole my heart, made it ache, broke it and then beautifully put it back together again. This series just keeps getting better!
Review to come, because first, I must with haste read Caelen's story!
August 2, 2019
The only reason this book is not 5 stars is I just couldn’t get over how they had an easy solution to Aleric getting out if his marriage to better the alliance. However, I loved everything else about their story. It was filled with really good angst. The narrator was fantastic and I recommend the audiobook!
March 19, 2022
Not a bad story, but it took forever to get to the yummy angst at the very end. This story's sex scenes were WAY too long for my tastes too. I think I'm getting too old to have so much sex as story filler.
August 18, 2012
After so many rave reviews I really expected a lot more from the book, unfortunately it fell flat... VERY flat. I will say, I did not read the first book in the trilogy and just started with the second book. I don't know if I would have enjoyed the book more feeling as though I knew the other characters better... but I'm going to venture and say I would not. I guess for me the biggest problem was the whole love at first sight connection they had. I mean, he was injured and going in and out of consciousness for the first few days and during that they become enamored with each other? Huh? Even after coming out of it, there was no connection except for physical attraction. They didn't know a thing about one another! I would have preferred less sex scenes and more one on one time where they were getting to know each other. How about they go for a stroll and chat? Maybe entertain each other at meal time? Nope, all we get are midnight romp sessions. Sorry, but that doesn't scream romance. Yes, I do realize they had to be discreet with him being betrothed and all, but come on. For me, I like to see a build up... it doesn't happen in this book and because of that it was just an ok read for me. The other thing that bothered me is a spoiler and I'll post it at the bottom.
*******************************SPOILER*********************************
In my opinion he waited way too long to realize he didn't want to go through with the wedding. It doesn't even say he would have called it off, if it weren't for the attack. He just thinks in his head that he can't go through with it as they're ready to be married... already on the altar. I mean, he didn't even question his brother about there being another way. The entire time I was wondering why the little brother couldn't take his place. Anyway, I'll stop now. Sorry to those who enjoyed the book!
*******************************SPOILER*********************************
In my opinion he waited way too long to realize he didn't want to go through with the wedding. It doesn't even say he would have called it off, if it weren't for the attack. He just thinks in his head that he can't go through with it as they're ready to be married... already on the altar. I mean, he didn't even question his brother about there being another way. The entire time I was wondering why the little brother couldn't take his place. Anyway, I'll stop now. Sorry to those who enjoyed the book!
June 17, 2019
Keeley is a healer who lives alone in a small cottage, after being unjustly banished by the McDonald clan. When she comes across a severely injured Alaric and aids him, she finds herself kidnapped my Alaric’s brothers, who demand she continue to help Alaric, and aid Ewan’s wife when her time to give birth comes. I liked the fact that Keeley didn’t take any nonsense from Alaric’s brothers. She’s strong, independent and has a good heart.
The connection Alaric and Keeley have is an instantaneous one, they find themselves unable to resist, and thus despite knowing they cannot wed, they decide to enjoy the short time they have together, even when injured and when one is riddled with a fever. I wasn’t keen on some of the writing when it came to the sex/making love scenes, take for example , am I mad for cringing a little, and thinking ouch?
I didn’t like the fact that Alaric , but…it didn’t lead to me hating the read or hating the main characters. Although Alaric is certainly not my favourite highlander/leading man and whilst the story isn’t a terrible one, I like this read under protest and I don’t know if I’ll ever re-read! That being said when Alaric finally comes to his senses, and the way in which he stays by Keeley, I did find my emotions ensnared a fair bit. Banks did well in pulling at my heartstrings in certain scenes.
Now Keeley does give into Alaric and her their desires quite fast, although she does try to resist, but she is definitely the character I felt the most sympathy for (rightly or wrongly).
I do want to know what will happen when it comes to book 3 and
The connection Alaric and Keeley have is an instantaneous one, they find themselves unable to resist, and thus despite knowing they cannot wed, they decide to enjoy the short time they have together, even when injured and when one is riddled with a fever. I wasn’t keen on some of the writing when it came to the sex/making love scenes, take for example , am I mad for cringing a little, and thinking ouch?
I didn’t like the fact that Alaric , but…it didn’t lead to me hating the read or hating the main characters. Although Alaric is certainly not my favourite highlander/leading man and whilst the story isn’t a terrible one, I like this read under protest and I don’t know if I’ll ever re-read! That being said when Alaric finally comes to his senses, and the way in which he stays by Keeley, I did find my emotions ensnared a fair bit. Banks did well in pulling at my heartstrings in certain scenes.
Now Keeley does give into Alaric and her their desires quite fast, although she does try to resist, but she is definitely the character I felt the most sympathy for (rightly or wrongly).
I do want to know what will happen when it comes to book 3 and
May 17, 2018
***SPOILERS***
I almost did not finish at 70%. Only because I have a policy to not stop so far through did I force myself to finish this book.
I know I am in the vast minority here, but I just did not buy it! As best I can tell, Alaric McCabe did not love Keeley McDonald nor did she love him. They lusted for each other. He has no problem taking any woman he wants to bed. She decided that since she has already been labeled a whore, she might as well live up to the name. They both figure it is perfectly okay for them to have sex as often and in as many positions as possible until the wedding even though he is betrothed to Rionna McDonald, the "sister Keeley McDonald's heart". Then, of course, he absolutely would never betray his wedding vows. It would make more sense to me if they agreed she was going to be his lifetime mistress. I would not have liked the book any better, but it would have felt more realistic.
I really hoped that Keely McDonald would die at the end and not recover. It would have almost redeemed the book for me. One of two characters I disliked would be dead, and he could have mourned her and demonstrated that he did love her and felt something other than lust.
The only two characters in this story I did like were Rionna McDonald and Caelen McCabe. Only because the next story is about them do I plan to read it. Even then, I have to take a break and read a couple of other books first.
I really enjoyed the first two books in Maya Banks' other Highlander Trilogy. In fact, I have been anxiously awaiting book 3 for years. I considered bumping this up to three stars for that reason alone, but I just could not do it.
I almost did not finish at 70%. Only because I have a policy to not stop so far through did I force myself to finish this book.
I know I am in the vast minority here, but I just did not buy it! As best I can tell, Alaric McCabe did not love Keeley McDonald nor did she love him. They lusted for each other. He has no problem taking any woman he wants to bed. She decided that since she has already been labeled a whore, she might as well live up to the name. They both figure it is perfectly okay for them to have sex as often and in as many positions as possible until the wedding even though he is betrothed to Rionna McDonald, the "sister Keeley McDonald's heart". Then, of course, he absolutely would never betray his wedding vows. It would make more sense to me if they agreed she was going to be his lifetime mistress. I would not have liked the book any better, but it would have felt more realistic.
I really hoped that Keely McDonald would die at the end and not recover. It would have almost redeemed the book for me. One of two characters I disliked would be dead, and he could have mourned her and demonstrated that he did love her and felt something other than lust.
The only two characters in this story I did like were Rionna McDonald and Caelen McCabe. Only because the next story is about them do I plan to read it. Even then, I have to take a break and read a couple of other books first.
I really enjoyed the first two books in Maya Banks' other Highlander Trilogy. In fact, I have been anxiously awaiting book 3 for years. I considered bumping this up to three stars for that reason alone, but I just could not do it.
October 16, 2013
Opening Line: “Alaric McCabe looked out over the expanse of McCabe land and grappled with the indecision plaguing him.”
Whoa, hello sexy Highland Warriors. I guess I should have listened to all the rave reviews; I’m sorry now I waited so long to discover this series.
This is the second book from the McCabe brothers trilogy and what an epic love story it turned out to be. I’ll be honest, it took me a bit to get into the story but Alaric and Keeley grew on me as did Banks’ particular take on historical Scotland, so that that by the end I found myself ensnared by these lovers who face impossible odds in claiming their HEA. Yeah the ending left me kinda breathless actually; exciting, heartbreaking, and surprising
Centering on middle brother Alaric we join him on his way to meet his betrothed. His is not to be a marriage of love, Alaric is marrying out of a sense of duty, family and to bring an alliance to the McDonald and McCabe clans and because the King demands it. So it’s fair to say there is a lot riding on this union. In the midst of his journey Alaric and his warriors are attacked and he is gravely injured. Managing to escape, his horse conveniently deposits him near the cottage of a healer.
Keeley McDonald lives alone after being banished by her people (the whys are pretty harsh and expanded upon throughout the story) Anyways, Keeley is handy with the ole herb which is lucky for our fallen Highlander. Getting the warrior’s bulk into her small cottage is no easy task but she is swiftly drawn to him and the wicked glint in his green eyes as she begins to care for his injuries and nurse him back to health.
In time his (equally sexy) brothers locate Alaric and then essentially kidnap Keeley so that she can care for him back on McCabe land as well as serve as midwife for the birth of Ewan and Mairin’s (In Bed with a Highlander) upcoming child. It’s not all bad as they offer her a position within their clan.
Back at the McCabe castle Alaric and Keeley are having trouble keeping their hands off each other and finally just abandon any pretenses and go for it. They both know that there is to be no future for them as Alaric is promised to another but for the time they have they’re going to create memories that will last forever. And because this is Maya Banks boy do they ever! The sex scenes are plentiful and even a bit naughty!
So this is where their love story really started to grow on me, as their time together neared an end and each moment became precious. How will they say goodbye? How can Keeley watch while he marries another? I honestly wondered how these two were going to get their HEA and then tragedy struck and a big twist that totally made sense and set up the next book beautifully. Oh the ending is just so good.
I had put off reading this series for quite a while because I just couldn’t come to terms with the author of (Colters' Woman) being able to write a decent historical Scottish romance. (That book may have just scared me for life) I’m very glad I gave this a go because Banks surprised me here.
Earlier I mentioned Banks’ particular take on medieval Scotland, she has written this in modern English. Sure we get a few “Aye’s” and lassies, lochs and lairds, tankards of ale and even descriptions of how ‘things’ are about to burst out of trews but this has been written for the masses. It’s also vague on setting and time period which usually bothers me (i.e. not much research went into this) yet somehow it still worked and I can’t wait to continue on with Caelen’s story. Never Love a Highlander
Whoa, hello sexy Highland Warriors. I guess I should have listened to all the rave reviews; I’m sorry now I waited so long to discover this series.
This is the second book from the McCabe brothers trilogy and what an epic love story it turned out to be. I’ll be honest, it took me a bit to get into the story but Alaric and Keeley grew on me as did Banks’ particular take on historical Scotland, so that that by the end I found myself ensnared by these lovers who face impossible odds in claiming their HEA. Yeah the ending left me kinda breathless actually; exciting, heartbreaking, and surprising
Centering on middle brother Alaric we join him on his way to meet his betrothed. His is not to be a marriage of love, Alaric is marrying out of a sense of duty, family and to bring an alliance to the McDonald and McCabe clans and because the King demands it. So it’s fair to say there is a lot riding on this union. In the midst of his journey Alaric and his warriors are attacked and he is gravely injured. Managing to escape, his horse conveniently deposits him near the cottage of a healer.
Keeley McDonald lives alone after being banished by her people (the whys are pretty harsh and expanded upon throughout the story) Anyways, Keeley is handy with the ole herb which is lucky for our fallen Highlander. Getting the warrior’s bulk into her small cottage is no easy task but she is swiftly drawn to him and the wicked glint in his green eyes as she begins to care for his injuries and nurse him back to health.
In time his (equally sexy) brothers locate Alaric and then essentially kidnap Keeley so that she can care for him back on McCabe land as well as serve as midwife for the birth of Ewan and Mairin’s (In Bed with a Highlander) upcoming child. It’s not all bad as they offer her a position within their clan.
Back at the McCabe castle Alaric and Keeley are having trouble keeping their hands off each other and finally just abandon any pretenses and go for it. They both know that there is to be no future for them as Alaric is promised to another but for the time they have they’re going to create memories that will last forever. And because this is Maya Banks boy do they ever! The sex scenes are plentiful and even a bit naughty!
So this is where their love story really started to grow on me, as their time together neared an end and each moment became precious. How will they say goodbye? How can Keeley watch while he marries another? I honestly wondered how these two were going to get their HEA and then tragedy struck and a big twist that totally made sense and set up the next book beautifully. Oh the ending is just so good.
I had put off reading this series for quite a while because I just couldn’t come to terms with the author of (Colters' Woman) being able to write a decent historical Scottish romance. (That book may have just scared me for life) I’m very glad I gave this a go because Banks surprised me here.
Earlier I mentioned Banks’ particular take on medieval Scotland, she has written this in modern English. Sure we get a few “Aye’s” and lassies, lochs and lairds, tankards of ale and even descriptions of how ‘things’ are about to burst out of trews but this has been written for the masses. It’s also vague on setting and time period which usually bothers me (i.e. not much research went into this) yet somehow it still worked and I can’t wait to continue on with Caelen’s story. Never Love a Highlander
August 4, 2015
I liked this, but 'tis the truth, I didn't love it. I wish I had a count of how many times that phrase was used, 'tis the truth.
I was tempted to give this 3.5 stars for the angst at the end with the h's injury and the impending marriage of the H, but overall it really was a 3, hence the rating. Nothing wrong with a 3. It's not that I wouldn't recommend it. It just lacked something to take it from like to love.
It was less campy than the first book, but I still wouldn't hold it up as an authentic feeling historical. Then again, many don't care about that. I'm not a particular historical snob myself. I enjoy a wallpaper if the story intrigues me, but sometimes the anachronisms go too far.
The story here was good but not great. I think it lacked the kind of tension that *I* enjoy. All of the conflict was centered around recovering from deadly injuries (both H and h) and a forbidden love. There was NO tension between the H/h. One of them was usually dying so it was hard to find time for such things, I suppose. They never argued and neither did anything particularly wallbanging. Obviously YMMV on preferences regarding the source of conflict.
The H was in a tough position. In the previous book he agreed to a MOC with the daughter of a neighboring Laird. It's a marriage that is VERY strategically important to the safety of his clan and Scotland. The King himself wants the marriage, so it's not easy at all for him to back out once he falls in love with another. Although I was surprised that the H or no one around him suggested he keep the h as a mistress. I'm not saying I agree with that arrangement, but I thought that was the common thinking among men at the time. Perhaps it's my ignorance speaking, but I always assumed that adultery only applied to women in historical times (at least until they'd supplied the heir and the spare). I assumed the men may be expected to be discreet and keep their mistresses hidden away, but certainly weren't expected to be faithful in a political MOC.
To her credit, the heroine understands the marriage was the H's duty and the risks of setting it aside. I am glad Banks did make allowances for the mindset of the time where it concerns marriage. Marriage, particularly within powerful families, had nothing to do with love or desire. Those things may develop, but that was secondary. It was also nice to see it handled a bit differently for once. Usually the other party in the MOC is a villain/undesirable. In this, the intended bride was in no way a villain and is, in fact, the heroine in the last book of the series. Again, more points to Banks for having women who love/respect one another and aren't constantly in competition or cast as angel or whore.
There were also some hot love scenes, which Banks tends to excel at.
I do have to quibble, per usual, about how the men in Banks' novels like to sit around and talk about feelings. Rings untrue in her contemporaries and is completely jarring in a historical featuring big burly highlanders who regularly decapitate enemies on the battlefield. In my imagination, a bunch of big, tough alpha males do not regularly sit around and talk about their tender feelings toward their lover/girlfriend/wife, etc. Guess some like that though, because Banks is famous for it.
I was tempted to give this 3.5 stars for the angst at the end with the h's injury and the impending marriage of the H, but overall it really was a 3, hence the rating. Nothing wrong with a 3. It's not that I wouldn't recommend it. It just lacked something to take it from like to love.
It was less campy than the first book, but I still wouldn't hold it up as an authentic feeling historical. Then again, many don't care about that. I'm not a particular historical snob myself. I enjoy a wallpaper if the story intrigues me, but sometimes the anachronisms go too far.
The story here was good but not great. I think it lacked the kind of tension that *I* enjoy. All of the conflict was centered around recovering from deadly injuries (both H and h) and a forbidden love. There was NO tension between the H/h. One of them was usually dying so it was hard to find time for such things, I suppose. They never argued and neither did anything particularly wallbanging. Obviously YMMV on preferences regarding the source of conflict.
The H was in a tough position. In the previous book he agreed to a MOC with the daughter of a neighboring Laird. It's a marriage that is VERY strategically important to the safety of his clan and Scotland. The King himself wants the marriage, so it's not easy at all for him to back out once he falls in love with another. Although I was surprised that the H or no one around him suggested he keep the h as a mistress. I'm not saying I agree with that arrangement, but I thought that was the common thinking among men at the time. Perhaps it's my ignorance speaking, but I always assumed that adultery only applied to women in historical times (at least until they'd supplied the heir and the spare). I assumed the men may be expected to be discreet and keep their mistresses hidden away, but certainly weren't expected to be faithful in a political MOC.
To her credit, the heroine understands the marriage was the H's duty and the risks of setting it aside. I am glad Banks did make allowances for the mindset of the time where it concerns marriage. Marriage, particularly within powerful families, had nothing to do with love or desire. Those things may develop, but that was secondary. It was also nice to see it handled a bit differently for once. Usually the other party in the MOC is a villain/undesirable. In this, the intended bride was in no way a villain and is, in fact, the heroine in the last book of the series. Again, more points to Banks for having women who love/respect one another and aren't constantly in competition or cast as angel or whore.
There were also some hot love scenes, which Banks tends to excel at.
I do have to quibble, per usual, about how the men in Banks' novels like to sit around and talk about feelings. Rings untrue in her contemporaries and is completely jarring in a historical featuring big burly highlanders who regularly decapitate enemies on the battlefield. In my imagination, a bunch of big, tough alpha males do not regularly sit around and talk about their tender feelings toward their lover/girlfriend/wife, etc. Guess some like that though, because Banks is famous for it.
January 12, 2018
Cidden çok zor okuduğum bir kitap oldu.
Benim güzel historicalımı, misler gibi İskoçlarımı alıp nasıl böyle bir kitap yazabilmiş yazar anlamıyorum. Korkunçtu ya, her yanı korkunçtu. 1 vermedim, çünkü daha korkunçlarını da görmüşlüğüm vardı.
Erkek karakter kesinlikle ne istediğini bilmeyen, onurdan bahsedip yaptıklarıyla bunu hiç de göstermeyen, karnım doysun ama çöreğim de tam dursun diyen bir yavşaktı.
Kadın karakter desen... aslında zemini sağlam, üzerine uğraşılsa iyi bir şey çıkabilirdi ama seçimlerini öyle mantıksız gerekçelerle desteklemeye çalıştı ki delirtti beni ya.
Kitabı okurken resmen beyin yamışması yaşadım! Beni cidden delirtti. Çok da zor bitirdim.
Çok mantıksız yerleri vardı, çok klişe yerleri vardı, latin pembe dizilerinden fırlamış replikler vardı...
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER YORUM!
Alaric McCabe, anlaşmalı olarak evleneceği bir McDonald kızının topraklarına gidiyor. Topraklar birleşsin diye evlenecekler. Yolda saldırıya uğruyorlar, bu çok kötü yaralanıyor falan. Kolunun altından kalçasına kadar kılıç yarası. Kaçıyor. Gelip bir evin önünde atından düşüyor.
Evin sahibi kız bir şifacı, bunu bulunca iyileştiriyor falan. Bu kız meğersem McDonald klanından kovulmuş, akrabalarından uzakta ufak bir kulübede yaşıyor. Adamın anlaşmalı olarak evleneceği kız da aslında bu şifacı kızın kuzeni!
Neyse kız buna bakıyor ediyor, sonra oğlanın kardeşleri geliyor. Giderken sen ona bakmaya devam edeceksin diye kızı da kendi topraklarına götürüyorlar.
Hani bu evlenme muhabbeti, gelinin kimliği falan kitabın ta başlarında belli oluyor. Bunu bile bile durmadan yapılan fikfikler. (sevişme) Konuşulanlar ve yapılanlar arasındaki mantıksızlıklar. Fikfik sahnelerinin uzunluğu, bitmeyen detayları... Adam kızı resmen fikfik için kullanıyormuş gibi bir his verdi içime. Öyle değildi, evet ama yeter amk dedim. Her akşam, "bu gece son" şarkısı eşliğinde kaderlerine yanarak fikfikleşiyorlar. Adam da hani seni seviyorum, artık sen namusum oldun, klanını da sikerim sana bir şey olmasın, demiyor ha. Evleneceğim, mecburum diyor.
Sonra bu gelin kız kaleye gelince de diğer kadınlar bu bizim kıza tavsiye veriyor, direkt cümleleri yazıyorum:
[b] Eğer Alaric'i gerçekten de bu kadar çok seviyorsan onun için işleri daha da zorlaştırma. Ne kadar acı çektiğini ona hissettirme. Bu onu daha da üzer. [/b]
What the fok ya... What the fok... :D
Son sayfalara kadar... Dedim herhalde evlenecek, bu kız da sonraki kitapta başlasıyla olacak falan :D Öyle kötü bir gidişat düşünün işte.
Neyse, laters babes.
Benim güzel historicalımı, misler gibi İskoçlarımı alıp nasıl böyle bir kitap yazabilmiş yazar anlamıyorum. Korkunçtu ya, her yanı korkunçtu. 1 vermedim, çünkü daha korkunçlarını da görmüşlüğüm vardı.
Erkek karakter kesinlikle ne istediğini bilmeyen, onurdan bahsedip yaptıklarıyla bunu hiç de göstermeyen, karnım doysun ama çöreğim de tam dursun diyen bir yavşaktı.
Kadın karakter desen... aslında zemini sağlam, üzerine uğraşılsa iyi bir şey çıkabilirdi ama seçimlerini öyle mantıksız gerekçelerle desteklemeye çalıştı ki delirtti beni ya.
Kitabı okurken resmen beyin yamışması yaşadım! Beni cidden delirtti. Çok da zor bitirdim.
Çok mantıksız yerleri vardı, çok klişe yerleri vardı, latin pembe dizilerinden fırlamış replikler vardı...
SPOILER SPOILER SPOILER YORUM!
Alaric McCabe, anlaşmalı olarak evleneceği bir McDonald kızının topraklarına gidiyor. Topraklar birleşsin diye evlenecekler. Yolda saldırıya uğruyorlar, bu çok kötü yaralanıyor falan. Kolunun altından kalçasına kadar kılıç yarası. Kaçıyor. Gelip bir evin önünde atından düşüyor.
Evin sahibi kız bir şifacı, bunu bulunca iyileştiriyor falan. Bu kız meğersem McDonald klanından kovulmuş, akrabalarından uzakta ufak bir kulübede yaşıyor. Adamın anlaşmalı olarak evleneceği kız da aslında bu şifacı kızın kuzeni!
Neyse kız buna bakıyor ediyor, sonra oğlanın kardeşleri geliyor. Giderken sen ona bakmaya devam edeceksin diye kızı da kendi topraklarına götürüyorlar.
Hani bu evlenme muhabbeti, gelinin kimliği falan kitabın ta başlarında belli oluyor. Bunu bile bile durmadan yapılan fikfikler. (sevişme) Konuşulanlar ve yapılanlar arasındaki mantıksızlıklar. Fikfik sahnelerinin uzunluğu, bitmeyen detayları... Adam kızı resmen fikfik için kullanıyormuş gibi bir his verdi içime. Öyle değildi, evet ama yeter amk dedim. Her akşam, "bu gece son" şarkısı eşliğinde kaderlerine yanarak fikfikleşiyorlar. Adam da hani seni seviyorum, artık sen namusum oldun, klanını da sikerim sana bir şey olmasın, demiyor ha. Evleneceğim, mecburum diyor.
Sonra bu gelin kız kaleye gelince de diğer kadınlar bu bizim kıza tavsiye veriyor, direkt cümleleri yazıyorum:
[b] Eğer Alaric'i gerçekten de bu kadar çok seviyorsan onun için işleri daha da zorlaştırma. Ne kadar acı çektiğini ona hissettirme. Bu onu daha da üzer. [/b]
What the fok ya... What the fok... :D
Son sayfalara kadar... Dedim herhalde evlenecek, bu kız da sonraki kitapta başlasıyla olacak falan :D Öyle kötü bir gidişat düşünün işte.
Neyse, laters babes.
May 9, 2013
I must say that I don't get the titles of these books... The titles seem cheesy; this one particularly. One could think that there was very much seduction involved, but instead I felt much more love, angst and romance!
Alaric... *sigh*... soo seemingly stern and cold, but inside... ahhhh!!!
That man has a way with aord that made me melt! His love words were so delicious and romantic that I was sighing constantly! He was hot and possessive too! I loved him!!!
Keeley was a dear too! She's sweet, but also sharp-tongued when necessary. Her dedication to her healing art, to her new clan and to Alaric was incredible. She was ready to sacrifice everything in order to uphold her loyalty to persons who have accepted her and showed her their respect and her value. Said this way it seems too self-righteous, but in the book it was so very well done!!! :D
Their love was so beautiful, their willingness to do the right thing for everybody, their love for their relatives, friends and clan was shining through all the book.
Everything seemed to be against them. They were tangled into a web of garbled duties. They didn't see any way out. They suffered and they made me cry...
But, obviously, there was a happy ending and I cheered for them at the end! :D
Alaric... *sigh*... soo seemingly stern and cold, but inside... ahhhh!!!
That man has a way with aord that made me melt! His love words were so delicious and romantic that I was sighing constantly! He was hot and possessive too! I loved him!!!
Keeley was a dear too! She's sweet, but also sharp-tongued when necessary. Her dedication to her healing art, to her new clan and to Alaric was incredible. She was ready to sacrifice everything in order to uphold her loyalty to persons who have accepted her and showed her their respect and her value. Said this way it seems too self-righteous, but in the book it was so very well done!!! :D
Their love was so beautiful, their willingness to do the right thing for everybody, their love for their relatives, friends and clan was shining through all the book.
Everything seemed to be against them. They were tangled into a web of garbled duties. They didn't see any way out. They suffered and they made me cry...
But, obviously, there was a happy ending and I cheered for them at the end! :D
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