Book Review: Between a Highlander and a Hard Place by Mary Wine

Author: Mary Wine

Title: Between a Highlander and a Hard Place

Series: Highland Weddings #5

Genre: Historical Romance

Format: ebook

Pages: 320

Published:  November 6, 2018

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Athena Trappes thinks she's in love...until she discovers the scoundrel only wanted her as his bit on the side. Enraged, she does what any spirited Englishwoman would set fire to his belongings, incur his dangerous wrath, and flee—immediately. With nowhere else to turn, she seeks freedom in the wilds of Scotland.

Highland Laird Symon Grant lost his wife years ago, and it's his duty to find another. Athena is not exactly what the clan has in mind for him, but Symon's heart burns with unexpected passion for the woman who would risk everything to be free.

Review:

Weee Symon's story!!!

Here we continue with seeing Symon finally find love after an arranged marriage. It's his duty to marry and provide an heir, but no one seems to fit what he wants...until he meets Athena Trappes. Athena thought she was in love until she discovered that he only wanted her as a mistress since he had his eyes on a richer prize. She runs away and seeks a new life. 

This was all unrealistic and sometimes silly, but for some reason it all seemed to be crazy enough to work. 

I liked Symon and Athena. They were perfect for each other. I loved the fact that Symon fell hard first and fell fast. Athena was worried...but look at happened when she thought she loved someone? So I get her taking time and made Symon do the work to woo her. 

The external and internal struggles worked very well. I loved the whole scene with the King near the end. I was unsure how everything was going to play out. Bless you Brenda! You are the darling of the clan!

The ending left on a HUGE cliffhanger........what are they going to do? EEEE *requests the next book to the series right away from the library* I gotta know. 

My biggest issue with the book.............Athena's name. The probablity of a 16th century English woman having that name is slim to none. It bugged me. Maybe there was one or two but one of nobility? Eeeee not sure about that one captain!

All-in-all, just a couple little bugs that annoyed me, but I enjoyed this quite a bit. The last couple have been just okay, but this was much better and worth wading through the others to get here. 4 stars from me.

 

Favorite Character(s): Brenda

Least Favorite Character(s): Esme......

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #14

Book Review: Highland Flame by Mary Wine

Author: Mary Wine

Title: Highland Flame

Genre: Historical Romance

Format: ebook

Pages: 313

Published: September 5, 2017

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Laird Diocail Gordon has just come into his title and inherited his father’s run down castle and rag-tag clan. He knows the sorry sight of the castle would send any woman running, but is determined to find a wife to help return his home to its former glory.

Widow Jane Stafford is on a mission—return to England even if it means trudging through the Scottish Highlands on foot. Her travels lead her straight to the path of danger until a mysterious, brawny man comes out of nowhere and saves her—and the spark between them is immediate. With a target on Jane’s back, she knows the only way to stay safe is to go with Diocail. But the real trouble will be guarding her heart from her newly ignited Highland flame…

Review:

Been meaning to push forward in this series for a while now, but you know life....things sometimes get forgotten or pushed back. But yayy. Finally back on track!

Here we follow Jane and Diocail. Jane is a newly made widow and she isn't sad about it. He was a bad husband in a lot of ways. She wants to go home one way or another even if that means walking the whole way. However, her plans are thwarted when she is saved by Diocail. He has just inherited his father's clan and it needs some serious work to get the clan back to it's former glory. First step...find a good and loyal wife to help. Jane is not that woman, but he can't help but be enchanted by the little English spitfire. 

This was a nice read. Loved Diocail and Jane. There is some drama, but nothing major. There are major trust issues they both have to work through...especially at the end. However, as every HR tells you......they work it out and they live happily ever after. 

I do wish we had more external drama that didn't involve someone trying to continuously kidnap Jane. Ugh. It got old. I would've liked a little more drama that might've brought Diocail and Jane together. I think it would've been nice to see them work on a problem together maybe. There is an external story going on at the same time, but it seemed to be slowed down to nearly a pause here. Hopefully we see more action in the next.

What else to say?

Loved Muir. 

Loved Jane and Diocail. You could see the lust and love bubbling there. They were perfect for each other even before they knew it. 

I can't wait to get to Brenda's book. She is my favorite but her book is last. We have one more tale to read before then. 

All-in-all, I have enjoyed the series so far. It is a cute and has some lovely steamy scenes. And the story is fun to watch unfold! This was a little slower for the external story, but still fun overall. I'll give this a 3. 

Favorite Character(s): Brenda is my girl

Least Favorite Character(s): The baddie(s) here

 Challenge(s):

- Library Love #13

- Romance Reading #17 (Highland in title)

Book Review: The Queen of Subtleties by Suzannah Dunn

Author: Suzannah Dunn

Title: The Queen of Subtleties

Genre: Historical Fiction

Format: paperback

Published: September 14, 2004

Where I Got It: My shelf (Used book store)

Summary: 

Anne Boleyn and Lucy Cornwallis: queen and

confectioner, fatefully linked in a court

rife with intrigue and treachery. She was the dark-eyed English beauty who captivated King Henry VIII, only to die at his behest three years after they were married. She was both manipulator and pawn, a complex, misunderstood mélange of subtlety and fire. Her name was Anne Boleyn.

Review:

This has certainly been collecting dust on my shelf for a while now. I don't even remember what used book store I bought this from! Eeek. Thank goodness for the TBR pile reading challenge I signed up for in 2022.

We follow Anne Boleyn and Lucy Cornwallis. One is the Queen of England and the other is a queen confectioner. They are fatefully linked in a court rife with intrigue and treachery. 

The fate of Anne Boleyn always hits me pretty hard. I have always had a strong connection with her. Her life was tragic...all the wives of Henry VIII were tragic in some way. He was a toxic man of his time. I think he was partially insane if you want my honest opinion. 

But this was very different. Not only do we get Anne's story told from her own pen, but we get to see Lucy Cornwallis. According to the author in the notes, Lucy is loosely based on an actual "Mrs. Cornwallis" that was a confectioner. She was the only woman in the household's two hundred kitchen staff. How fun! Don't envy her though...what a terrible job being around all that intrigue and treachery. Made me cry when we learn she was in love with Mark. SOBS. I liked Lucy. 

I wasn't a huge fan of this depiction of Anne. There were times she seemed TOO cruel. Yes, she spoke her mind and had a temper on her (from what historians can gather), but in the first chapter or two, she was just plain MEAN and LEWD. Like woah! She also was painted as purely innocent at the beginning. Anne knew how to play the game thanks to her education in France. It's true...she didn't want to JUST be a mistress...she wanted to be a wife. Catherine was one step out, so she took that gamble. Sadly...she lost when she couldn't give Henry what she wanted. Was she innocent at the very beginning of the courtship? Maybe at first she didn't want anything to do with Henry, but her ambition and family loyalty won out. Was she innocent of the crimes in the end? Heck ya, but she had her own demons I am sure.  

I also really struggled with the modern language. Some sprinkled in is okay. I don't expect this to be purely Tudor-era/Shakespearean talk, BUT play it like the shows and movies do. There were a lot of lewd words that just didn't fit the times or even the characters. At one point Anne flat-out cusses Henry out (which the asshat TOTALLY deserved)....mmmm...it was too much sometimes. I can look past a lot of modern slips in writing, but it for sure crossed the line and I couldn't ignore it. 

The ending was good. I loved the last message Anne left for her daughter. THAT is something I can totally see Anne writing down for her kid. It seemed the perfect advice. It made me really sad....Anne would have been SO proud that her kid was able to make it through and be glorious. 

All-in-all, this had some good moments. I really loved the change in narration. Lucy was a good character! I really enjoyed learning about Lucy and reading about her journey. I enjoyed some of the bits with this Anne. However, there were just too many modern words and so forth that didn't settle well with me. I'll give this 2 stars. 

 

Challenge(s):

- TBR Reading Challenge (#9)

Book Review: Woman On The Wall by Robin Rivers

Author: Robin Rivers

Title: Woman On The Wall

Series: The Sibylline Chronicles #1

Genre: Historical Fiction & Mystery

Format: paperbook

Pages: 392

Published: September 6, 2022

Where I Got It: My shelf (Given to me by the author/publisher for my honest and unbiased opinion)

Summary: 

For 500 years, the once powerful Order of the Sibylline has kept the identity of its future prophetess hidden in the most famous painting in the world. Amid the chaos of post-World War II France, one woman discovers their ancient secret and its ability to transform a fragmented world.

PARIS 1945

A BRILLIANT, DEVOTED, AND DRIVEN PALEOGRAPHER …

After 480 days as a Nazi political prisoner, Dr. Marie Guerrant returns to Paris to repatriate the Mona Lisa and find her daughter. When a British Colonel arrives claiming he needs her French Resistance connections to find the lost painting, which she helped hide seven years earlier, distrust is high. Tipped off about her daughter's involvement and the Colonel's obsessive belief that the Mona Lisa contains the identity of a modern-day Sibyl prophetess, Marie must risk her life to save her daughter and the masterpiece from men consumed by controlling destiny.

AMBOISE, FRANCE 1519

A BRAVE, BOLD, AND POTENT PROPHETESS …

On the eve of rising as the Sibyl of Amboise, Aesmeh de la Rose must rely on her visions to find Leonardo da Vinci after he and the Mona Lisa disappear from his workshop at Clos Lucé. The precious painting and its creator cannot be lost or the ancient Sibylline Order faces extermination after more than 1000 years of rebuilding their powerful matriarchy. Torn between duty and love, Aesmeh must tap into an ancient alchemy in a race to keep the Order safe. But, an unspeakable betrayal forces her to make an unfathomable choice to secure the future of the Sibylline.

This rich alternate history binds two women beyond time, each fighting to restore sight to a world blinded by the power and control of men. The fate of the world rests on their courage to reclaim the ancient feminine powers of the Sibylline. Woman on the Wall is a sweeping fantastical tale of intrigue and hope for humanity that fuels imagination and curiosity.

Review:

Couldn't resist this one! What a cool concept and I adore the cover. 

For 500 years, the once powerful Order of the Sibylline has kept the identity of its future prophetess hidden in the most famous painting in the world. One woman will discover their ancient secret. This woman is named Marie Guerrant. It is 1945 and she has survived being a prisoner by the Nazis. She returns to Paris and will risk her life to save her daughter and the masterpiece from men consumed by controlling destiny. In 1519, another woman will be putting her life on the line. Aesmeh de la Rose must rely on her visions to find Leonardo da Vinci and the Mona Lisa after they disappear from his workshop. The fate of the world rests on them.  

Immediately hooked! I literally didn't want to put this down. Grrrrr dumb work and dumb sleep time. 

We have two timelines being told at the same time. One is Aesmeh in 1519 and the other is Marie in 1945. It was so refreshing! Normally authors go the route of modern (21st century) and some other time in the past. It was interesting seeing two completely different time periods here and how they are tied together. 

I felt so bad for Marie. She gets out of one hell and is tossed into a mystery larger than herself. All she wants to do is have a normal life and find her daughter. Poor thing has gone through so much. And then there is Aesmeh. Felt bad for her too. She is on the eve of rising as the Sibyl of Amboise. She finds herself torn in two. But I applaud them and want to be them when I grow up! So brave and smart. I don't think I would want visions like Aesmeh....that seems like too much.

I honestly had no idea what was going to happen and how everything was going to be resolved. 

The ending was good. There was a tiny bit of a cliffhanger though. You can tell there will be more and I am excited about another one. There is for sure more story to tell. The author has left me wanting more!

In the end, I was hooked from page 1! This was certainly an adventure and I hope there will be a book 2 soon. There is more story to tell! Art, mystery, action, and magic. This was a lot of fun and I can see this being a good book club book. 5 stars from me. 

Graphic Novel Review: José and the Pirate Captain Toledano

Author: Arnon Z. Shorr
Illustrator: Joshua M Edelglass
Title: José and the Pirate Captain Toledano
Genre: Historical Fiction, Children’s Graphic Novels, YA 
Pages: ebook, 96 pages*
Published: January 1st 2022 
Where I Got It: Given to me by the author/publisher for my honest and unbiased opinion

*Available in Print and ebook

Summary: 

Set in the shadows of the Spanish Inquisition, this is the coming-of-age story of José Alfaro, a young refugee who forms a powerful bond with the mysterious Pirate Captain Toledano. It’s also a dynamic pirate adventure on the high seas, with hand-to-hand combat and ship-to-ship action, and the powerful story of a dark time in history when people took different paths to survive. José Alfaro is a cocky, rambunctious teen in the 16th-century colony of Santo Domingo, pulling pranks and dodging the authorities. One day, José’s mischief lands him in serious trouble. Hoping for a fresh start, he stows away on the Laqish, not knowing that it’s a pirate ship. From his hiding place, he watches the pirates divide their loot and plan their attacks on long days at sea. He also takes note of the respect they have for their captain, the intimidating Toledano. But the captain has a secret―like José, he is a Jew. For him, piracy is not about the gold; it has a different purpose. Under the tutelage of the ship’s quartermaster, José learns the intricacies of pirate life. But when he can, the captain finds ways to pull José away from the crew, to teach him about his ancestors.

View Trailer Jose and the Pirate Captain Toledano by Arnon Z. Shorr

Review: 

 When I was a wee thing myself I LOVED anything pirates so I know this would've been perfect for me so I knew I had to check this out. That cover...the storyline...the title....perfection!

Here we follow José Alfaro who is a young refugee. After certain events, he finds himself on a pirate ship and forms a powerful bond with the mysterious Pirate Captain Toledano. Set during the Spanish Inquisition, José and the captain have a secret that is dangerous for themselves and their crew. 

I finished this in one sitting. I literally couldn't stop reading! I had to know what was going to happen to our hero, his family, his friends, and his crew. No one is safe during the Spanish Inquisition! Such a dangerous and dark time. 

It made me sad watching José be forced to grow up so quickly. He went from a standard rambunctious and carefree teen to a young adult with a dangerous secret and worry and sadness. But he never lost his spirit! 

I loved watching him and Captain Toledano form a friendship. It was nice seeing the captain take José under his wing. 

By the end, I found that I enjoyed it, but it also saddened me. Some people are just so evil. Humans can really stink, but I loved the ending message here. There is hope for humanity, but it is a rough road. 

I loved, loved, LOVED the art. It was perfect for this story. It was a perfect balance of realistic vs animated. I think kids will really like it.

The only thing I consider an "issue" is that I felt like we needed more. I would've loved to see/read more of José's lessons with Captain Toledano. Learn more about the history of the Jewish people and the religion. Maybe see more about what it takes to be a pirate like fighting, etc. Maybe an extra couple of pages? I think that would've been an extra cherry on top.

In the end, I really enjoyed reading this. Can this please be made into a TV show or a movie??? I would for sure watch that! The story, the characters, the message...bravo. If you like historical fiction you'll enjoy this. I think this would be a good story for kids...especially if they like pirates. It has a great message at the end. Overall, I shall stamp this with 4 stars. 

This giveaway is for 2 print copies One for each of 2 winners. This giveaway is open to the U.S. only and ends on July 1, 2022 midnight, pacific time. Entries accepted via Rafflecopter only. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Audiobook Review: Highland Vixen by Mary Wine

Author: Mary Wine

Narrator: Antony Ferguson

Title: Highland Vixen

(Highland Weddings #2)

Genre: Historical Romance

Format: Audiobook

Published: February 7th 2017

Where I got It: Borrowed from library

Summary: 

Fierce Highland war chief seeks comely lass for fun, frolic, and marriage

Marcus MacPherson is every inch the fearsome Highlander. He's used to men averting their eyes and women cowering before him. He thinks he'll eventually settle down with a nice, obedient bride. Instead, he gets Helen Grant... Stubborn as the day is long, fearless and dedicated to raising as much hell as possible, Helen is definitely going to challenge Marcus. And challenge him some more. And then some.

It's anyone's guess who'll win this battle of the heart... 

Review:

Read book 1 a while back. Seen this one as an audio from my library so why not. 

We follow Marcus who is every inch the fearsome Highlander. He's used to men averting their eyes and women cowering. Not Helen Grant though. She is stubborn, fearless, and dedicated to challenging Marcus every step of the way. 

I barely remember the happenings from book 1...it has been so long, but this did okay as a standalone. There were some reminders and conversations about the events of the past, so I was able to remember some stuff. 

I remember not liking Marcus AT all from book 1. I think that is why I didn't hustle to read book 2. He is an arse with a couple A. However...we got to learn more about him and see the real man behind the tough exterior. He really had to earn Helen's love! GOOD. She didn't just give in. It took a while. 

Which, I love Helen. She was perfect for Marcus and never lost an inch of herself. They will make an excellent team. I feel like there are some bad storms heading towards the MacPherson lands. Darn, that Earl. 

Ugh...I did get really annoyed at how often poor Helen was kidnapped and taken throughout not only book 1, but here too. Sighs. I just wanted her to grab a sword and be her own hero.

Awwww poor Brenda. She deserves the world and then some! I am really mad at how dirty the author did her. I believe she gets a book of her own later on, so that person better be a saint and bow down at her feet. She is a hero!

The narrator was good. I enjoyed his voices overall. The girls all sounded the same, but if you pay attention there were small changes. 

Overall, I enjoyed this. Lots of drama. Lots of issues between Marcus and Helen, BUT it was needed. I am mad about how badly Brenda was treated, so I hope she gets her justice soon. In the end, I'll give this 3 stars

Challenge(s):
- #27 for Audiobook challenge

Audiobook Review: My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, & Jodi Meadows

Author: Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows

Narrator: Katherine Kellgren

Title: My Lady Jane

(The Lady Janies #1)

Genre: YA, Historical Fiction, What-if, Retellings, Humor, Fantasy, Romance

Format: Audiobook

Published: June 7th 2016

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Edward (long live the king) is the King of England. He’s also dying, which is inconvenient, as he’s only sixteen and he’d much rather be planning for his first kiss than considering who will inherit his crown…

Jane (reads too many books) is Edward’s cousin, and far more interested in books than romance. Unfortunately for Jane, Edward has arranged to marry her off to secure the line of succession. And there’s something a little odd about her intended…

Gifford (call him G) is a horse. That is, he’s an Eðian (eth-y-un, for the uninitiated). Every day at dawn he becomes a noble chestnut steed—but then he wakes at dusk with a mouthful of hay. It’s all very undignified.

The plot thickens as Edward, Jane, and G are drawn into a dangerous conspiracy. With the fate of the kingdom at stake, our heroes will have to engage in some conspiring of their own. But can they pull off their plan before it’s off with their heads?

Review:

Been meaning to give this book a try for a while. Decided to just get the audiobook and go. 

This is a what if tale. We follow King Edward, Lady Jane Grey, and Gifford. In this version of their story, King Edward is still dying but is he truly sick? Lady Jane is forced to marry Gifford but there is something off with her groom. Gifford, who goes by G, is in fact a Eoian...he turns into a horse. Sadly, he can't control this gift. At dawn he transforms to a horse and at dusk wakes back up as a man. The three are drawn into a dangerous conspiracy with the fate of the kingdom at stake. Will our heroes be able to save the kingdom from Mary's grasp or even save their own lives?

This was a lot of fun. What-ifs are always a good time. In this world, there are shapeshifters running around. Some are royal like King Henry and pretty much all his wives. Then there are the regular humans who are scared and want to see the Eoians burned....like Princess Mary. 

I love the twist of fate for our characters. In real life they all end up dead. Edward from being sick and then Lady Jane and Gifford were executed. Here...they are able to escape and fight another day against the blood-thirsty Mary. I loved this. I always felt so for them...especially Lady Jane Grey. 

Also, I really loved the blend of genres here. It is a historical fiction, romance, YA (which didn't feel too YA), and fantasy. I loved, loved, LOVED the idea of the shapeshifters. They take place of the Protestants and Catholic issue. Very clever indeed.  

This is a YA but don't let that scare you off. It wasn't YA cheesy or annoying. Sure there is a maybe love triangle here and there, but it wasn't serious and didn't take over the plot. These are teens running around with new adult feelings. Crushes happen. But yes, I'm glad the YA curse didn't happen here. 

Oooo yes there was humor here and I found myself chuckling a lot.

That was a good ending. I'm glad it ended the way it did. I won't spoil anything but I did cheer a little bit. And I laughed because of the fate of a certain character was perfecccccccct. Again....you shall not get spoilers from me!

Now, I did do the audio version of this. The narrator did a good job. Her voice fit the characters and she really did bring everything to life. However, there were times I felt she got WAY too into it. There were times when a character would exclaim or yell...and the narrator would quite literally YELL. Ouch! There goes my ears! I loved how she got into it, but there were times I just wanted her to take a couple steps back. Good thing I mainly listened to this on my speaker instead of my earbuds. Other than that, she did a fine job indeed. 

In the end, this was a lot of fun. Humor, love, drama, battle, shapeshifting, and a what if that I wish was real! I for sure recommend this. The audio is fun, but be prepared for some actual yelling. ;) hehe But yes, fun for sure. I'll give this 4 stars.

Challenge(s):
- #16 for Audiobook challenge

Book Review: Mrs Shakespeare by Robert Nye

Author: Robert Nye

Title: Mrs. Shakespeare

Genre: Historical Fiction

Format: hardcover

Pages: 224

Published: 1993 

Where I Got It: My shelf (Flint Library book sale)

Summary: 

In a memoir written seven years following her famed husband's death, Anne Hathaway recalls her life with William Shakespeare, especially a remarkable week spent in London, in April 1594, in his lodgings over a fishmonger's shop.

Review:

This has been collecting dust on my shelf for about 3 years now. I bought this at the Flint Library book sale a while back. Finally dusted this off and gave it a chance. 

This is a memoir of Anne Hathaway...the wife of the famous William Shakespeare. It has been 7 years since her husband has died and she has decided to sit down and recall her life with him. 

The first thing you'll notice is that the formatting of this is really different. Which fun and different of course. It's written in verse-style. Anne wanted to honor her husband by writing her diary and reflections in this way. Different and not for everyone. I liked it because it seemed to fit and it was fun!

However...........I did have issues with the jumping around in the timeline. I would've liked her to tell their story from when they first met and so on. I would've loved to see their relationship develop and change and then she at the end they finally understand each other. This felt....hollow in a way. 

I would've also loved to learn more about her and the kids from her POV. You see it a little bit here and there, but she focuses so much on him and his career. They are pretty much forgotten in good ol' Willy's shadow so it would've been nice for this to focus more on them. Yes, I get he was her hubby and a big part of her life, but it would've been nice to know her before she met him too and her life after him. That is what I was hoping for when I picked this up 3 years ago. 

Overall, I did have fun with this. Some humor and it was nice learning a bit about Anne. I did have some big issues though. I'll give this 2 stars. 

Reading Challenge(s)

- TBR Reading Challenge (#1)

Audiobook Review: Highland Protector by Catherine Bybee

Author: Catherine Bybee

Narrator: David Monteath

Title: Highland Protector

(MacCoinnich Time Travels #5)

Genre: Historical Romance, Paranormal, Fantasy, SCI FI

Format: Audiobook

Pages: 300 

Published:  November 7th 2013

Where I got It: Audible 

Summary: 

No ordinary hero can save Amber from death... it will take a Highland Protector

Amber MacCoinnich survival depends on her traveling to the twenty first century, or so her mother’s premonition told her. Death taunts Amber and offers peace in her endless pain. Without the mysterious savior her mother spoke of, Amber prepares for death only to wake with a handsome, dark stranger in her bed.

Gavin Kincaid spends his life shifting time in order to preserve and protect the MacCoinnich family and their line even though he’s never met one living MacCoinnich. A haunting portrait of a beautiful woman captures his attention and he embarks on a quest to put a name to the picture. When a colleague vanishes, the time-stream forces Kincaid to the twenty first century where he finds his mystifying woman close to death. His Druid gift can save her, but at what price? And when they both find themselves emotionally linked, the truth behind Kincaid’s heritage just might kill them both.

Review:

The final book in the series. I am so sad!!

We continue the story with Amber who's survival depends on her traveling to the 21st century according to her mother's premonition. Death hangs over Amber and would be the only way to offer peace and end her pain. Amber is preparing for her death only to wake up with a handsome stranger in her bed. Gavin has spent his life shifting time to help preserve and protect the MacCoinnich family line. During one of his missions, a portrait of a beautiful woman catches his attention and he feels like she needs his help. He embarks on a mission to find out who she is. When a colleague vanishes, the time-stream forces Gavin to go to the 21st century where he finds the mystery woman close to death. His Druid gift seems to be the only thing that can save her. 

This is really bittersweet. I hate saying goodbye to this world and the MacCoinnich clan. There are so many stories left to tell! Especially with that ending! SUCH A CLIFF HANGER! EEEEEEEEEEEEEEE! HOW CAN YOU LEAVE ME LIKE THIS!!!!!!!!!?????? SOBS!!!!! GAHHH I NEED TO SEE CIAN BE HAPPY! I heard a rumor...that the series might get a follow-up someday...so I am hopeful....but it has been years since this one came back. 

I loved watching Amber and Gavin fall in love. Their love story is not a-typical. The lust is of course there right away, but they are forced to bond and get "married" in order to save Amber. The love comes last but I loved watching them learn to trust each other and finally succumb to their love. 

Awwwww I also adored watching Selma and Jake finally get together! In some ways I loved their love story a touch more especially when we get to meet Jake's kiddos. Too cute!

I really must applaud the author! She has people from three entirely different centuries co-existing! Different speech patterns and behaviors. It flowed perfectly together. 

Which - I must applaud the narrator as well. He was able to really distinguish all the different characters from different centuries and countries. His American girl accent has really improved from book 1. 

All-in-all, I am sad to say goodbye to this world and our characters. I hope the rumors are right that we will get another book, but it's been years since this came out. I enjoyed this overall, but the ending left me sad because there is so much more and it was for sure a cliff-hanger. Sighs. I'll give this 3 stars. 

Challenge(s):
- #11 for Audiobook challenge

Audiobook Review: Highland Shifter by Catherine Bybee

Author: Catherine Bybee 

Narrator: David Monteath

Title: Highland Shifter

(MacCoinnich Time Travels #4)

Genre: Historical Romance, Fantasy, Paranormal, & SCI FI

Format: Audiobook

Pages: 296 

Published:  February 5th 2012

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

A mysterious Druid book and Helen’s sixth sense send her to Scotland in search of a missing boy. After being attacked by strange men dressed in medieval garb, a handsome, desirable hero answering to the boy’s name rescues her. No one is more surprised than she to find herself in sixteenth century Scotland. Unable to deny the reality of time travel, Helen discovers smoldering passion with a man destined to leave her.

Simon has lived his Druid life in two very different worlds, two vastly different times, and when Helen practically lands in his lap, he knows his life is about to change forever. There are enemies in California lying in wait for her, and an army in Scotland closing in on his family. Simon is the only person who can protect her. But when she learns his most guarded secret, will she still want him? Can Helen love a Highland Shifter?

Review:

Decided to dive in. Couldn't help myself ;) 

In book 4, some time has passed and Simon is all grown up. He has lived in two very different worlds. He grew up in the 2000s/2010 USA and then his young adult life he grew up a Druid Highlander in the 1500s. Things have been calm for a few years until Helen pretty much lands in his lap. Thanks to a mysterious Druid book and Helen's strange sixth sense, Helen finds herself in search of a missing boy. After an accident, she wakes up in a strange forest in Scotland and she finds herself in a story for the ages. Can Helen and Simon be able to save everyone they care about from enemies in modern day California and an army hellbent on destroying MacCoinnich clan? 

This was the book I was worried about. One - because it is the first book in a new arc. Two - it is pretty much "next gen". Simon is Liz's kid and the oldest of the next generation to take the helm pretty much. We still have our old faces, but it has been 15 years or so and they are old and happy in their love. So yes - worried I was........

WHICH was silly. This was really good. Not as good as the last book, but the last book was a hard one to beat. The last one was still my favorite so far. Alas, there is only ONE more book. BOOOO. Give us moreee. 

But yes, this was really good. It was exciting to see Simon all grown up and in complete control of his shifting gifts. He really has become a powerful Druid and I would want his gift for sure. Controlling animals, talking to animals, and even being able to shift to ANY animal you want? Epic. That is what I want. 

I was bummed we really didn't get to play around with Helen's gift and have her strengthen it. Maybe next book we'll get to see hers get better? Sure her ability to find what she wants thanks to her "sixth" sense is cool, but I'm sure there is a lot of potential there. We shall see. 

Poor Amber. Sobs! I feel so bad for her. I am excited for the next book because we get to see her find love and maybe be able to get comfy and find away to live with her ability. Poor thing. 

What I loved about this book was how much time travel we got. It was fun to jump back and forth more so then in the other books. Loved that! 

Now....I didn't like how easily the big baddie was dealt with. I was hoping for more of a...fight? I guess after such a bad baddie in the last three, this one felt super meh. Not really an issue and easily dealt with compared to the threats in the last ones. Sighs. I wasn't even remotely worried about the baddie in this. Very predictable sadly. 

The narrator is the same so that made me happy. His American girl keeps getting better so that makes me happy. 

Overall, I did really enjoy this, but it wasn't as good. The baddie wasn't a real threat compared to the last one and the baddie was super predictable and easily resolved. Still...though...this was good and my worries were for naught. I'm sad there is only one book left. Maybe I should hold off? I do not want to say goodbye! I'll give this one 3 stars.   

Challenge(s):
- #8 for Audiobook challenge

- #5 for Romance Bingo - "Highland in Title"

 

Audiobook Review: Redeeming Vows by Catherine Bybee

Author: Catherine Bybee 

Narrator: David Monteath

Title: Redeeming Vows

(MacCoinnich Time Travels #3)

Genre: Historical Romance, SCIFI, Fantasy, Paranormal

Format: Audiobook

Pages: 314 

Published:   December 17th 2010

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

For her own safety, modern day, single mom, Lizzy McAllister is forced to bow to the medieval men who surround her when she's thrust back in time to the sixteenth century against her will. When Lizzie finds herself trapped in time with Fin, the one man she finds both irresistible and maddening, she agrees to combine forces with him to rid Scotland of the evil witch, Grainna. Finlay MacCoinnich's attraction to Lizzie sizzles the very air they breathe. Tearing down the solid walls the woman has built around her won't be easy, but he's willing to do anything to keep her by his side. When a spell cast by their deadliest foe throws them forward in time, will they manage to find their way back in time to save their family from peril? And will Lizzy willingly stay in his time, or abandon him altogether?

Review:

Book 3!!!! This has been  the one I have been itching for. I wanted Fin's and Liz's story really badly, but you need to read/listen to the first 2 in order to know what the heck is going on. 

Things are coming to a-head with the evil witch Grainna. Lizzy is stuck in the past and she isn't happy. Sure, she loves being with her sister and all, but she has been so independent and self-reliant since she was a teen and was pretty much kicked out of the house when she got pregnant. Soooo being stuck with medieval men is driving her mad. Especially Fin who is both irresistible and maddening. When a spell cast by their deadliest foe throws her and him back to modern day, they are stuck with each other and need to work together to get back to the past and save their families. 

OOOOoooOOO Grainna. You evil, evil beyotch! BUT you gotta love a super bad baddie. Makes it more scary and fun. I was not sure how they were going to get rid of her once and for all. 

I liked Lizzy even though she was too stubborn sometimes. Fin was adorable but he was too alpha sometimes. It worked between them and I am happy they found a compromise and realized they are two beings from two completely different worlds. It isn't an easy love or romance. And yesssss it did take forever for them to admit feelings. Sure...the lust is obv, but the love? NAH, they have a lot to work out. I do think this is my favorite couple so far of the series. I loved the others too. Heck I want a prequel with Fin's parents. They have such a deep love and I want to see their tale!

This is technically the end of this arc of the series. I am curious to see what is going to happen in the next books. We know its a few years in the future since Liz's son is grown up and so are the young siblings. I am curious and I can't wait to start them! Hopefully the baddie is just as bad....or worse. EEEEK! HOWEVER, I am super nervous for the next few. Hopefully the author doesn't copy/paste pretty much. Sighs. 

Oooo the narrator is winning me over. I like him a lot and his American girl accent has gotten SO much better. Still makes me giggle once in a while, but I am proud of him. I can't imagine anyone else doing these books. His Scottish accent is perfect!

All-in-all, I do think this was my favorite of the series. I am curious, but scared for the next books since this "arc" is done. MMMMMM but I do highly recommend this series so far. I'll give this a 5. 

Challenge(s):
- #3 for Audiobook challenge

 

Audiobook Review: Silent Vows by Catherine Bybee

Author: Catherine Bybee

Narrator: David Monteath

Title: Silent Vows

(MacCoinnich Time Travels #2)

Genre: Historical Romance, Time Travel, Fantasy, Sci Fi

Format: Audiobook

Pages: 302

Published:  September 3rd 2010

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Myra, a medieval virgin druidess, flees five hundred years into the future to escape death at the hands of a cursed witch and lands in the arms of a handsome but cynical twenty-first century cop. Officer Todd Blakely knows Myra is hiding something, but can't resist her innocent charms. Destiny throws them both into a world of intrigue and mysticism. Can Todd be the true white knight she needs? Or will magic and the winds of time tear them apart?

Review:

Couldn't wait to get started on book 2! Book 1 was so good and it left on a cliffie of sorts. 

We now follow Myra who was sent to the future to hide from the evil witch who wants her virgin druid blood. Also, Myra needs to find her sister-in-law's sister, Liz, and nephew to warn them and let them know that Tara is okay. She finds herself in the path of Officer Todd Blakely who knows Myra is hiding something and may know where the missing Tara is. But he is oddly also attracted to her and wants to help her. 

I am loving this series so far. I can't wait for book 3. 

This was good and again slightly different than the a-typical time travel books. We get to see the aftermath of book 1 when Tara left the modern age all of a sudden. The cops are looking for her and Liz is a mess. I am bummed we didn't get to re-meet up with Tara's old friend. Poor thing must be a mess too. We rarely see the ramifications and it made me worried for Myra because the cops know she knows something but she won't say. 

I was a little unsure of Todd at first and it took me near to the end when he finally man's up and admits he loves Myra. I don't blame her brothers for wanting to knock his head off. LOL. But yes - he does finally man up when things get really real. 

This does add more of a witch element. Yes, we have the time travel element, but there is also a lot more magic used in this one. I liked it. I am curious to see how far it goes. 

That evil witch, Grainna, really is true evil and she worries me. She is getting stronger. Oh boy. We get a better look into her powers. I feel bad for her followers who are mind-controlled for sure and/or severely lied to. 

The narrator is the same as before. I like him even though his young American voice still needs a touch of work, but I feel like it was a hair better this time around. 

Overall, I liked this one a lot. I am itching to get a start on book 3! Everything is coming to a head and I need to know what will happen next. Plus we get to see Liz's story with Fin. They have a lot of chemistry but a LOT of differences they will need to settle. I'll give this 4 stars.  

Challenge(s):
- #63 for Audiobook Challenge

 

Audiobook Review: Binding vows by Catherine Bybee

Author: Catherine Bybee

Narrator: David Monteath

Title: Binding Vows

(MacCoinnich Time Travels #1)

Genre: SciFi, Fantasy, Historical Romance, Paranormal, Time Travel

Format: Audiobook

Published:  December 4th 2009

Where I got It: Audible

Summary: 

Duncan MacCoinnich's task... Travel to the twenty-first century Renaissance Faire, deflower the Druid virgins, and go home. Only his job is not so easily accomplished with the virgin in question, Tara McAllister. Time is running out. The evil is closing in on them both. Tara finds Duncan irresistible after what was supposed to be a mock Hand-fasting binds them. When Duncan whisks her to his home in Scotland she could accept that. But, can she forgive him for taking away her modern life when she finds herself in the sixteenth century? And is it love they feel? Or something else?

Review:

Trying to complete my reading challenge so I grabbed this one since it is "time travel". Plus it seems to take a different spin on the concept *fingers crossed*

We follow Duncan MacCoinnich and Tara. Duncan and his family have been given a task from the Ancients to travel to the 21st century once a year and deflower any Druid virgins that go to the Renaissance Faire in order to stop an evil witch from killing them and taking their virgin blood to break her curse. This year...is not so easy when he comes across Tara who is stubborn even though she is instantly attracted to Duncan. After a mock Hand-fasting between the two that binds them, Duncan whisks her back in time to save her. Can she ever forgive him? 

This was a lot of fun. It was not your a-typical time travel romance novel. Sure they have insta-feelings and all that, but there is a lot at play because of that evil witch and the MacCoinnich's task to protect the people of all centuries. Sure it isn't nice to seduce the virgins and never call them again, but they will be killed if they do not. I really did love the reason WHY Duncan dragged her along. He really had no choice at that point and it worked. 

I loved Duncan and his brother. I can't wait for his brother to find his HEA. He is very sweet and wicked. I also want Tara's bff to get a HEA! 

Ooooo that witch is evil. They need to get rid of her ASAP. Evil, but I liked it. What a good baddie! A part of me feels bad when we find out WHY she went totally evil...but damn...she is evil and I do not think they can save her at this point. She has done way too much. 

The narrator was good. I feel like I heard him before. His accents and different voices were really good. Except for his American young woman accent. I had to stifle a chuckle. I think he tried to hard at the beginning because I felt like he relaxed (or I totally just got used to it and it didn't bother me anymore) and then it worked and fit. 

Overall, I really enjoyed this. I can't wait for book 2! Another twist...Duncan's little sis is forced to go to the 21st century. Bound to be a lot of fun for sure! I highly recommend this one. I'll give this 4 stars. 

Challenge(s):
- #61 for Audiobook Challenge

- #22 Time Travel

Another bingoooo