Action: ♠♠♠♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣♣.♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥♥.♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦ / Suspense: ♠♠♠♠
Action: 4 / Emotion: 4.5 / Romance: 4.5 / Sensuous: 1.5 / Suspense: 4 // Historical Flavor: 4 / Laughter: 4 / Tears: 4½
Do you remember that guy in high school that everybody liked and wanted to be around? The one all the girls were secretly in love with? The All-American football quarterback. The class president. The homecoming king. The valedictorian. And he was gorgeous, charismatic and a natural-born leader. That is the picture Williamson painted when she slowly revealed the layers of Jamie, the eighth Lord of Maxwell. There seemed to be nothing that Jamie wasn't competently capable of accomplishing. He was a leader, a warrior, a poet, a musician, an artist, a thinker, a lover, a friend, an adventurer, loyal, honorable, etc.
Alexia is a "Daddy's Girl" down to the tips of her chewed off nails. She is introduced as having little compassion for the stable boy's dilemma when she wins his best suit of clothing (and almost only suit) in a dice game so she can sneak out of Thirlwall Castle by blending in with her father's men when he leaves to attend a March Meeting. (A day of truce called between feuding English and Scottish clans in an attempt to settle differences legally.) The English Sir Thomas Carleton (served ten years as warden for English West March) and Scottish Lord John Maxwell (Scottish warden) were the worst two reivers of the lot. Alexia just wanted to see one of those hated Maxwell's up close. Sir Thomas blustered and fussed at Alexia when he discovered her among his men, but it was obvious she would suffer no punishment from a father that adored his tomboy daughter. (Having no son, Sir Thomas raised Alexia with sword, lance and crossbow in her hands.)
Fourteen year old Alexia Carleton met seventeen year old Jamie Maxwell as the two "boys" ran from the hated Johnstones when she was caught laughing at Sandie Johnstone's misfortune as the boys played football while their fathers were in negotiations. After an adventurous chase through the market and eluding the hive of Johnstone brothers, Alexia fell in love with Jamie that day when he left her with a parting kiss.
Five years later Sir Thomas, Alexia and her older sister, Evie, were headed to Carlisle Castle, the home of Alexia's betrothed, Seymour Howard (the new English warden). Williamson inserted a clever surprise before introducing Alexia's betrothed. It seems Sir Thomas forced a marriage on Alexia three years earlier to merchant, Nicholas Forster, who left the day after his marriage to lead a Russian expedition from which he never returned. The most surprising revelation was that Alexia left her marriage bed still a virgin because Nicholas fell asleep before consummating his union.
Alexia has resigned herself to marriage to the attractive young man who was one of Queen Elizabeth's favorites when she hears a voice from her past. Malcolm Maxwell, Jamie's crippled brother, joins the Carletons in Seymour's antechamber. Seymour captured Malcolm when pursuing a raiding party at Bewcastle Waste and issued a ransom demand to the new Lord of Maxwell, Jamie.
Alexia was not the only member of the kissing party to fall in love five years ago. When Jamie infiltrated Carlisle Castle to rescue Malcolm, he takes the woman he has wanted for years as well. For six weeks Jamie holds Alexia as hostage for ransom at Kilchurn Castle (home of his Aunt, Lady Madeleine Campbell, dowager countess of Argyle). Jamie and Alexia waste minimal time worrying about being long-term enemies before they give in to their mutual desires and become unashamed lovers. It is no surprise that the many, many love scenes that follow Jamie and Alexia throughout the remainder of the book are not sizzling, and contain very little graphic detail in spite of the passion and emotion because Beloved Rogue was written in 1988.
It is from Auntie Mad that Alexia learns that Jamie can never marry her because the Maxwell Clan will always take first place in his life. Besides, the current laws forbade marriage between the English and Scots.
Williamson does the most remarkable job of seamlessly weaving into the plot actual historical characters and how unfolding historical events conspire to aid Jamie and Alexia on their path to a happily-ever-after. When Jamie is arrested by James Stuart, King James VI of Scotland for abducting and raping the Englishwoman, he faces a traitor's death. While Jamie languishes in the tower at Stirling Castle, Auntie Mad's ambitious son, Colin Campbell, sixth Earl of Argyle, shows his hatred of his cousin by prompting guards to mistreat Jamie before his trial.
Argyle is to be disappointed, though, because Queen Elizabeth prompts King James to force Jamie to marry Alexia -- in an attempt to stop the borderland feuding. Thus, the 'true to her county and family' Alexia finds herself married and carted off to Caerlaverock Castle in Scotland. Where the English Carleton / Scots Maxwell feud takes place on a personal level. The difficulties that arise between the protagonists is best described by Jamie:
". . . their marriage wasn't likely to be an easy one. She was proud and strong-willed, and he was proud and stubborn; a volatile combination that only love could bind." (page 357)And boy do Jamie and Alexia fight and misunderstand one another for many long months to come. Alexia immediately instills mistrust in Jamie the morning after their marriage by spontaneously spouting out that Caerlaverock is not her home, she is not a Scot, nor a Maxwell. Williamson further increases the tension and suspense in the book when Argyle and the English ambassador ask Sir Thomas to ask Alexia to spy on the Maxwells.
That one utterance from Alexia created a lack of sympathy towards the heroine of the novel. She loved Jamie enough to carry on a six-week affair with him. Is disappointed that they can't marry. When gets to marry him, after all, takes offense because he was "forced" to marry her and gets all up in arms. Alexia's hurtful statement causes Jamie to fling back his own 'well if you don't want to be a Maxwell, after you give me my heirs, you can hie yourself back to your beloved father' statement. Felt more sympathy towards Jamie than Alexia because did not understand her reasoning.
Thankfully, Jamie and Alexia's sharped-tongued stubbornnesses were not the only difficulties they encountered. The supporting characters in the book were wonderfully written and added much turmoil, intrigue and additional angst to the book.
Really liked Malcolm, even though he was extremely bitter, having suffered his whole life with a deformity of one shoulder being higher than the other, causing him to drag one foot slightly behind the other. Malcolm espoused a wisdom far beyond his seventeen years. Loved the way Williamson revealed layer after layer of Malcolm's personality as he grew throughout the story. (Particularly liked the scene with Alexia where he suggested she run from the marriage and listed the reasons why.)
Really enjoyed the addition of Big Jock Armstrong, a monstrously big, larger-than-life character, who always seemed to be around to tease Jamie (using true Scottish words (had to look up meanings)) whenever Jamie had another roaring fight with Alexia. Although Big Jock was not richly developed, his presence added greatly to the enjoyment of the book.
Have to jump on the bandwagon with Alexia when it came to Jamie's mother, Lady Annor Maxwell. She was a harsh, unbending woman, who not only made life difficult for the Englishwoman in her midst, but constantly berated Jamie for being too soft to be laird. Lady Annor had not one redeeming, likeable trait. Found it amazing that her sons were as likeable as they were, having such a stringent, unhappy mother around.
Alexia was able to form a bond with the youngest two Maxwell boys, fourteen-year-old Diccon, and six-year-old Andy. Although they did not take up a lot of space in the story, these two boys were fun, interesting additions to the story -- the most memorable being when Andy and Alexia were throwing snowballs.
Robin Maxwell was his mother's son. Robin made no secret that he wished he was sitting in the High Seat instead of Jamie. Williamson did a great job of creating many layers to Robin. It was easy to automatically dislike Robin because he might be conspiring to kill Jamie. But it was just as easy to feel compassion for Robin because he had such a harsh mother and was struggling with his position in life.
Alexia felt big and gauche around the tiny "epitome of ideal feminine beauty" that was Elspeth Campbell. It didn't help matters that sixteen-year-old, rich, politically powerful Elspeth had been promised to Jamie. Even though Alexia wanted Jamie for herself, she couldn't help but feel guilty for stealing Elspeth's husband-to-be. Williamson meagerly developed Elspeth's personality, but used her character to add more suspense and emotion to the story when accidents began to befall Alexia.
Another character that played a major role in the story while staying the background was Evelyn "Evie" Carleton, who came to live with Alexia at Caerlaverock. Alexia promised Evie a home with her because she felt guilty and responsible for Evie's burned, ravaged face (which remained covered with a gauze mask). Williamson cleverly revealed through tiny tidbits of information dropped throughout the story that Evie had been a vain, selfish child and resented Alexia because she got to marry the most perfect of men.
A surprising addition to the story was Alexia's budding friendship with Katherine, the old Lord Maxwell's mistress, mostly known as 'the lady of the bog.' It was difficult to understand the nuances that Williamson was trying to portray as Katherine and Alexia interacted. What would really like to know, though, is why was Alexia drinking the foul-tasting brew each and every time she visited Katherine's hut . . . and what was it for.
Must not forget the addition of Rufus Hall to the cast of characters. Rufus was a young gentleman, born the seventh son to an impoverished family who served as steward to Sir Thomas. Rufus's call to fame was the spitefulnesses that he and Alexia engaged in.
One last character mentioned in the book, but never once appeared is Lady Edwina Carleton, Alexia's mother. Apparently Alexa's relationship with her mother did not merit her mother's appearance in the book.
"She knew what it was to have a mother who always found fault. Her own mother, Lady Edwina, felt nothing but contempt for her younger daughter and had never bothered to hide it." (page 119)Never understood how Alexia could have developed into such a self-confident, determined, outspoken, strong-willed woman if she was raised by a fault-finding mother. Was Williamson trying to tell the reader that a daughter can dismiss a mother as easily as an author can? It just didn't ring true!
While the volatility of the relationship between Jamie and Alexia inspired them to the greatest heights of love, it was that constant unpredictability that lessened the enjoyment factor of the book. Cannot understand why someone would want to be in a relationship of constant upheaval. Surely, even that much 'make-up' sex cannot be worth the constant fighting between two strong-willed people!
In conclusion, Beloved Rogue is an enjoyable, but not must-read Historical Romance. Williamson created: {1} Jamie: the perfect alpha, hunky, hero (in spite of a disapproving harridan of a mother) who never seemed to make a mis-step (except when it came to dealing with the heroine); {2} Alexia: a heroine that was too strongly opinionated, even though she, too, had a mother who faulted her every action; {3} many wonderfully-written and engaging supporting characters that added depth and interest to the story; {4} several exciting sequences of action that added an adventurous flavor to the book; {5} a deeply moving emotional story that brought laughter and tears; {6} love-at-first-sight romance and all the foibles that come with such an event; {7} lots of passionate lovemaking peppered the book, even though there was no sizzle or spark; {8} a suspenseful aura permeated the story: {a} how can Jamie and Alexia resolve their volatile differences to reach a loving understanding; {b} will Jamie be usurped by his brother; {c} who is trying to kill Alexia; {9} actual historical characters added realism to story line; and {10} the requisite happily-ever-after.
--Vonda M. Reid (Thursday, February 23, 2012 : 1:42 a.m.) [215]
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Beloved Rogue Quotations:
| 222 | . . . understood for the first time that the true horror of death was not its inevitability, but its permanence. |
| 232 | And then she would have to live with the choice. |
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Characters Found In "Beloved Rogue"
| Character / Location | Description / Relationships |
|---|---|
| Jamie Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Hero] bright blond hair streaked platinum by the sun; lean; quick; ran with easy grace of stallion; fearless reckless ferocity (12) athlete (16) hard sinewy muscle encased his rib cage (17) bright gold streaked with silver and cut close to his head so that it resembled a gilded helmet; strange dusky green, like river moss eyes; high, sculptured cheekbones; thin blade of a nose; wide, flexible mouth; air of casual elegance about him (18) long, slender fingers; clean, well cared for nails (20) talent for acting (42) 17 + 5 = 22-y-o (44) moved with aura of hard elegance; every inch the lord (50) played lute; lithe, athletic body; would outshine all queen's courtiers (65) tight buttocks; slender muscular thighs (67) feline quality to way he moved; lean, muscular elegance (68) broad, muscular chest (85) loved music; played virginals and the spinet (92) eighth Lord of Maxwell (336) Earl of Morton (361) |
| Alexia Carleton Thirlwall Castle, England Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Heroine] tall (2) 14y-o (2) raised as son, taught to use sword, lance, long bow (5) father's favorite (9) flat as a kneading board; long and skinny as a Maypole; nose too thin and haughty; mouth too full; legs were gangly; feet too big; dark brown hair, with autumn lights of red and gold (18) gnawed, stubby nails (20) 19-y-o (23) remarkable eyes, tawny and flecked with umber (32) strong bones and muscles of wrist (40) grace and beauty; rare strength of spirit (44) thick, waist-length hair (47) small, yet round full breasts (71) couldn't carry a tune (92) all sharp bones; sharper words; mind that reasoned like a man's (114) woman of steel and earth and fire; mysterious (177) long, slender legs (178) |
| . . . | . . . |
| Aphrodite | Alexia's falcon; wedding gift from Jamie (148) sensitive, excitable creatures (174) |
| Big Jock Armstrong Scotland | [Secondary Character] giant man; massive head; black beard (38) wide grin; craggy face (45) taciturn (207) |
| Maggie Armstrong Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Rare Appearances] washing woman / cousin to Big Jock; large woman (175) talked freely (176) |
| Mary [Armstrong] Caerlaverock, Scotland | [One Appearance] washing woman / Maggie's older sister (175) hushing sister (176) |
| Richie Armstrong | [No Appearance In Book] Wat's uncle; foul sort (63) |
| Wat Armstrong Scotland | [One Appearance] friend and ally of Jamie's; stopped by his castle during travels // massive head; tangled black hair; flowing beard (59) huge man; broad shoulders (60) |
| ___ Armstrong | [One Appearance] Wat's daughter; curly black hair; saucy, dimpled smile (61) |
| Molly Bell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Rare Appearances] maid; recently married; pregnant (211) |
| Nickie Bell Threave, Scotland | [No Appearance In Book] killed in raid on Threave |
| Willie Bell Thirlwall Castle, England | [One Appearance] stableboy; Alexia won his clothes dicing in back stall (2) skinny; tow-headed (4) |
| Archie Campbell Earl of Argyle | [No Appearance In Book] Madeleine's husband (74) died fifteen years ago (76) |
| Colin Campbell Sixth Earl of Argyle Stirling Castle, Scotland | [Secondary Character] Madeleine's only child; dour-faced man; "so godly, he thinks he sweats holy water" (75) Privy Council at Stirling Castle (99) ambitious; Protestant; political arena suited to his special talents, his ability to rule (100) obsidian eyes; narrow, pinched face; huge, spotless desk (101) obsequious (309) |
| Elspeth Campbell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Secondary Character] all white and gold -- a sugared confection out of a comfit box; pale, silver-blond hair, pile in tight curls atop her head; tiny; delicate as Belgian lace; 26-y-o; epitome of ideal feminine beauty (96) luminous blue eyes (97) cousin to Jamie's mother; orphaned young; ward of Jamie's father; rich; politically powerful (98) |
| Lady Madeleine Campbell dowager countess of Argyle Kilchurn Castle, Scotland | [Secondary Character] Jamie's Auntie Mad, lived at Kilchurn Castle (49) large woman; adored Jamie; Jamie's aunt (73) loved to gossip; daughter of a moderately prosperous local miller (75) mammoth shoulders (76) |
| Lady Edwina Carleton | [No Appearance In Book] Alexia's mother (1) always found fault; felt nothing but contempt for her young daughter, never bothered to hide it (119) |
| Evelyn "Evie" Carleton Thirlwall Castle, England Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Secondary Character] Alexia's sister; brown hair (3) would never marry (9) older sister; gauze mask covered her face (24) scarred, burn-ravaged face (30) description of mask (154) |
| Sir Thomas Carleton Thirlwall Castle English Side of Border | [Major Secondary Character] Alexia's father; tall; burly (1) chief of Carleton clan; 10 years as warden for English West march 97) gnarled fingers (8) no direct mail heirs (9) lined leathery face; paunch (10) protruding stomach (23) considerable girth; gout (32) simple, blunt, old Border raider (114) |
| Cobie Caerlaverock, Scotland | [One Appearance] gardener |
| Cuthburt Carlisle Castle, England | [One Appearance] Carlisle Castle guard member (35) |
| Drake | [Actual Historical Character / No Appearance] queen's courtier (65) |
| Nicholas Forster England | [One Appearance] Alexia's husband // 30-y-o; more presentable than handsome; merchant-adventurer, partner in prestigious Muscovy Company; if next venture a success, would be one of wealthiest men in England (26) shorter than Alexia by a head; body thickly slabbed with muscle; covered with pelt of curling black hair (27) working 18-hour days for last three months; outfitting Resolute for Russian expedition; rode 250 miles from Long for wedding (28) |
| Fergie Hall | [No Appearances] Rufus's brother; Jamie won horse from him |
| Rufus Hall Thirlwall Castle, England | [Rare Appearances] stocky young man; dun-colored hair; father's steward (3) "never passed up opportunity to get her in trouble" (4) pompous (9) gentleman; younger son of impoverished family (9) youngest of seven sons to impoverished family; without money had little prospects, no hope of future; too dull; too common-looking (248) |
| Seymour Howard Carlisle Castle English Side of England | [Major Secondary Character] Alexia's betrothed; young man; elaborately dressed; dark head; gold-studded earring sparkled in one ear; warm smile lit up his face; dark brown eyes (23) handsome; soulful eyes (25) one of the queen's favorite's (31) beard (32) |
| Angus Johnstone Scotland | [Rare Appearances] Alexia saved him when being chased by Maxwells / head of clan Johnstone; Jamie's bitterest enemy (190) fiery beard; black eyes (243) |
| Mat Johnstone | [No Appearances] at fair (158) Diccon's arch-rival (159) |
| Sandie Johnstone Scotland | [One Appearance] fiery red hair (12) heavy Scottish burr; thick; bony; loose-limbed joints; very big hands; hard, flinty black, cruel-looking eyes (13) |
| Katherine Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Major Secondary Character] tall; thin; dressed all in black; pale, sharp-boned oval face with winged brows soaring above ash-gray eyes (164) Witch of Solway; rumored mistress of old Lord Maxwell; resident in bog since before Jamie's birth (176) lived alone in a hut in middle of marsh with deadly quicksands; hut filled with jars and boxes of mysterious potions; exotic animal for a house pet; white, ageless face; dresses all in black; speaks little; rarely makes sense (188) warm, husky laugh (197) bastard daughter of bishop of Carlisle (219) |
| Captain Mapes Carlisle Castle, England | [One Appearance] captain of the Carlisle Castle guard (34) conscientious man (35) |
| Andy Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Secondary Character] Jamie's younger brother (120) curling blond hair; large, green Maxwell eyes; 6-y-o (135) |
| Lady Annor Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Major Secondary Character] Jamie's mother; Archie's baby sister; hammering duty into her sons (76) forced abdication (107) bright red-gold hair; dark pewter gray hair; face too arrogant and harsh to be beautiful; Jamie's face (115) tiny lines aged her face; fierce Maxwell pride radiated from every inch (118) could not read nor write (224) |
| Diccon Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Secondary Character] Jamie's younger brother (120) early teens; looked like Robin; thickly built; redheaded (136) 14-y-o (334) |
| Lord John Maxwell Scotland | [Brief Appearance] Jamie's father; Scottish warden (4) five sons (10) half a head taller than Sir Thomas; hair and beard were bright red (11) |
| John Maxwell | [No Appearance] John and Annor's first son; drowned young (76) slower; more cautious; nine when died; one year older than Jamie (181) |
| Malcolm Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Major Secondary Character] Jamie's brother (33) small; frail-looking; very dark; dragged one foot slightly behind the other caused by deformity of one shoulder being higher than the other (36); fine black brows (36) Maxwell green eyes; sharp, foxlike face (37) dark, sardonic face (119) most complex; a dark, butter underside to his humor (120) face similar to Jamie's; high, sculptured cheekbones; long, narrow nose; wide-spaced, lazy-lidded eyes; 17-y-o; hard, bitter set to mouth (268) |
| Robin Maxwell Caerlaverock, Scotland | [Major Secondary Character] Jamie's brother // father's fiery red hair; equally bright, neatly clipped beard; green Maxwell eyes (48) chief pastime: entering and wagering on horse races (227) |
| Nana | [No Appearance] midwife who birthed Katherine; loved, cared for, raised Katherine (219) herbalist; silly, foolish boasting; tiny mole on nose (220) |
| Mistress Parsons Caerlaverock, Scotland | [No Appearance] miller's wife; just had son (175) |
| Geoffrey Peele [Peale] Caerlaverock, Scotland | [One Appearance] unadorned black doublet; air of a gentleman; thin, aesthetic face; chilling blue eyes; friend of Annor's (283) priest; Peale (291) |
| Raleigh | [Actual Historical Character / No Appearance] queen's courtier (65) |
| Satan's Steed | Jamie's black stallion |
| Sir Wat Scott | attended March Meeting / from Hermitage (237) |
| James Stuart King James VI of Scotland Stirling Castle, Scotland | [Actual Historical Character / Minor Secondary Character] Queen Elizabeth's legitimate successor; queen's cousin (100) young; 20-y-o; thin; pale; awkward as stick doll in plain black clothes; thin, bony fingers (107) endured poverty and humiliation in Scotland; desired to rule England (108) |
| Mary Stuart of Scotland Chartley Castle, Staffordshire | [Actual Historical Character / No Appearance] Queen of Scotland // widowed young by impotent dauphin of France; married Lord Darnley (pretty face, degenerate); killed for James Hepburn, Earl of Bothwell (flamboyantly attractive; unbridled lusts; hunger for throne) (314) |
| Queen Elizabeth Tudor | [Actual Historical Character / No Appearance] English (7) raucous, fun-loving court; loved handsome, virile young men of wit, charm, daring (31) 51-y-o (100) Queen Elizabeth I of England (101) |
| Walshingham England | [No Appearance] man in London that Argyle and ambassador would pass along intelligence to (113) |
| {un-named} | [Rare Appearances] in league with Argyle // queen's ambassador short, balding man of indeterminate age; bland, nondescript features (101) genius at manipulating people with words (114) |
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aka: Penn Williamson
aka: Elizabeth Lambert
Comprehensive Booklist:
♣ Fantastic Fiction
Penelope Williamson Book List:
♠ FictionDB
Penn Williamson Book List:
♠ FictionDB
Elizabeth Lambert Book List:
♠ FictionDB
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Beloved Rogue Reviews:
| Rated | Posted | Site | Notes, Comments, Etc. |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.00 average | {5 reviews} | Amazon | as of: February 23, 2012 |
| -- | {no reviews} | Barnes and Noble | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| 3.50 average | {2 reviews} | Good Reads | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| 2.50 | {2 ratings} | Library Thing | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| 3.30 average | {7 ratings} | Paperback Swap | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| -- | 10-06-2011 | Regan's Romance Reviews | Article about Penelope Williamson |
| 4.00 average | {1 review} | Shelfari | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| -- | {no reviews} | We Read | as of: February 24, 2012 |
| 3.85 | 02-24-2012 | Wolf Bear Does Books | shorter post on Amazon, Good Reads, Shelfari |
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♥ Disclaimer: I Purchased This Book
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your Beloved Rogue review link to table, just ask
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Mary Wine -- Bedding The Enemy
Rated: ♥ ♥ ♥ . ♥ {3.75}
Action: ♠♠♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣.♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦ / Suspense: ♠♠♠.♠
Action: 3 / Emotion: 3.75 / Romance: 3 / Sensuous: 4 / Suspense: 3.5 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 2 / Tears: 0
Added Bedding The Enemy as the third book to The McJames Clan Trilogy because it is basically a continuation of a three-book long story that started with book one, In Bed With A Stranger. A McJames does not make an appearance until briefly near the end of the book. The hero is the brother to the heroine of book two, In The Warrior's Bed. This book could very easily be a stand-alone read, even though the references to characters in the previous books are better understood having read books one and two.
Keir McQuade, the third son of Erik McQuade, has become the new laird of Clan McQuade. (The chain of events which resulted in this event is detailed in book two, In The Warrior's Bed.) Keir is nothing like his warring, greedy, selfish father and makes plans to go to court to swear fealty to James Stuart (the Scots king who now resides on the English throne). Keir is determined to return honor to the name of McQuade.
Mary Wine opens the book by delivering a poignant scene in which Gwen, Keir's mistress, moves her belongings from Red Stone Castle because Keir must now find himself a woman worthy of being the laird's wife and she knows that Keir does not love her (as she loves him). The weight of being responsible for the clan weighs heavy on Keir's shoulders as he watches Gwen walk out of his life.
Helena Knyvett has been trained since she was a girl to control her every action, to keep a smooth expression and present the perfect picture of a blue-blooded gentlewoman that reflects positively on the powerful family of the Earl of Kenton. Helena was sent to London to live with her brother to fulfill her duties of making a match that would increase the family's coffers and lands.
Helena's brother, Edmund Charles Knyvett is the evil villain featured in Bedding The Enemy. He is the perfect picture of a aristocrat who believes he must be fawned over and allowed to treat others with callousness, and heavy-handedness without any repercussions simply because he is blue-blooded and will soon hold the title, Earl of Kenton. Edmund is a master at playing the games, adding to the whispers and concocting devious schemes that abound at court. Edmund has been controlling all of Helena's actions for the past year. Helena has learned to make sure no emotion crosses her face to keep Edmund from witnessing his infliction of misery on her life.
Edmund's latest plan is to replace Queen Anne's maid of honor, Raelin McKorey, with Helena so that Helena can feed him inside information. Helena, however, befriends the outspoken, strong-willed, "seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time" Raelin. (Raelin made several memorable appearances in book two.) Another young maid of honor, Catriona McAlister, joins Helena and Raelin in friendship and shared girlishness.
Farrell McQuade (Keir's second in command) is not any more happy to be in the crowded city of London than Keir. Although Farrell's role is not well-developed, he is always protecting the new laird's back as he pursues bringing peace and honor to the clan.
On his first night at the king's hall, Keir is immediately attracted to the tall, modest woman. Helena is suddenly very aware of the huge Scot across the crowd. Helena likes that the Scot stands tall, like a man instead of the dandy pose all the courtiers have perfected. Edmund notices the Scot's interest and lets him know that he will not be tainting the Knyvett blood with his common-ness. Helena admired Keir's fearlessness when he stated his intentions to court her. Keir did not appear afraid of her brother, unlike the courtiers who bowed and scraped before Edmund.
Helena fights Edmund when he attacks Raelin in his efforts to sully her name (to lose her position of maid of honor). When the royal guards arrive and start condemning Raelin, Keir boldly steps forward and accuses Edmund of dishonorable behavior -- beating up on women. All the participants are brought before the king, where Helena determines to hold on to the one thing that Edmund can't control -- her honor. Helena knows she will pay a high price for speaking truly of Edmund's evil intentions.
Keir was relieved that he got an audience with the king so soon after arriving in London. James noticed that Keir was not cut from the same cloth as his father and suggested he stay at court and court the girl.
Raelin set into motion a chain of events that resulted in Keir's marriage to Helena. Raelin approached Keir to tell him that Helena was under her brother's control and had not been back to court for days. Keir rescued Helena from the attic where Edmund had locked her away. Instead of pounding Edmund into the ground, Keir sat down to gamble with Edmund and the rotten, tattered Lord Philip Ronchford -- whereupon, Keir won Helena. With the aid of the king, Keir was able to circumvent Edmund's machinations to prevent Helena's marriage to the Scot by attempting to sell her to Lord Ronchford.
Although Helena desires Keir, she does not want to be owned by any man. She does not trust that Keir will treat her kindly once he gets her back to his lands in Scotland, and fights falling in love. Keir, however, finally understands what Gwen was talking about and confesses his love of Helena. As Bedding The Enemy, is published under Brava Books (mildly erotic), the love scenes between Keir and Helena are frequent and graphically revealing.
Bedding The Enemy is an enjoyable read. The book is packed with {1} gorgeous, hunky Scots (who outshine English pretty-boys); {2} a huge, muscled, determined, generous hero; {3} an honorable, mistreated heroine (who comes to the hero's rescue after he rescues her; {4} hot, steamy, graphically-vivid, numerous love scenes; {5} interesting supporting characters; {6} plenty of action to speed the story along; {7} copious amounts of suspense concerning Keir and Helena's ability to overcome Edmund's plots and schemes to find their happily ever after.
Having read all three books of The McJames Clan Trilogy back to back, noticed several recurring features in all three books. Those likenesses included: {1} An all-evil villain who wreaks havoc on the heroine of the novel. {2} Lots of graphic sexuality that features the use of modernist terms to describe female anatomy. {3} Similar means of determining the awareness and attraction between the hero and heroine: {a} heroine discovers men have their own unique, tantalizing smell; {b} the heroine "blushes for" the hero; {c} the heroine's body reacts to the hero in her thoughts and in his proximity; {d} heroine is teased for undressing the hero with her eyes.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Clan Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Monday; March 28, 2011 : 1:31 p.m.)
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
Books Similar to "Bedding The Enemy"
Bedding The Enemy Quotations:
10 . . . to think against your place was to question the will of God.
123 . . . She felt crushed beneath the weight of so many hands pushing her toward what they wanted.
156 . . . It was an instant response and one that she could not control even after getting what she'd desired.
160 . . . That didn't stop her from wanting it. . . . She wanted her gallant knight; wanted a childhood fantasy so badly that it hurt.
182 . . . She wanted to resist thinking that way. . . . But emotions were fickle things that didn't listen to logic.
187 . . . She was speaking without thinking again. . . . Keir was the only man who swept her common sense aside simply by being near her. It was as irritating as it was exciting. . . .
253 . . . Men did not make sense. Their humor was incomprehensible. . . .
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♦ Facebook
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
Bedding The Enemy Reviews:
Notes:
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your Bedding The Enemy review link to table, just ask
Action: ♠♠♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣.♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦ / Suspense: ♠♠♠.♠
Action: 3 / Emotion: 3.75 / Romance: 3 / Sensuous: 4 / Suspense: 3.5 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 2 / Tears: 0
Keir McQuade, the third son of Erik McQuade, has become the new laird of Clan McQuade. (The chain of events which resulted in this event is detailed in book two, In The Warrior's Bed.) Keir is nothing like his warring, greedy, selfish father and makes plans to go to court to swear fealty to James Stuart (the Scots king who now resides on the English throne). Keir is determined to return honor to the name of McQuade.
Mary Wine opens the book by delivering a poignant scene in which Gwen, Keir's mistress, moves her belongings from Red Stone Castle because Keir must now find himself a woman worthy of being the laird's wife and she knows that Keir does not love her (as she loves him). The weight of being responsible for the clan weighs heavy on Keir's shoulders as he watches Gwen walk out of his life.
Helena Knyvett has been trained since she was a girl to control her every action, to keep a smooth expression and present the perfect picture of a blue-blooded gentlewoman that reflects positively on the powerful family of the Earl of Kenton. Helena was sent to London to live with her brother to fulfill her duties of making a match that would increase the family's coffers and lands.
Helena's brother, Edmund Charles Knyvett is the evil villain featured in Bedding The Enemy. He is the perfect picture of a aristocrat who believes he must be fawned over and allowed to treat others with callousness, and heavy-handedness without any repercussions simply because he is blue-blooded and will soon hold the title, Earl of Kenton. Edmund is a master at playing the games, adding to the whispers and concocting devious schemes that abound at court. Edmund has been controlling all of Helena's actions for the past year. Helena has learned to make sure no emotion crosses her face to keep Edmund from witnessing his infliction of misery on her life.
Edmund's latest plan is to replace Queen Anne's maid of honor, Raelin McKorey, with Helena so that Helena can feed him inside information. Helena, however, befriends the outspoken, strong-willed, "seems to be in the wrong place at the wrong time" Raelin. (Raelin made several memorable appearances in book two.) Another young maid of honor, Catriona McAlister, joins Helena and Raelin in friendship and shared girlishness.
Farrell McQuade (Keir's second in command) is not any more happy to be in the crowded city of London than Keir. Although Farrell's role is not well-developed, he is always protecting the new laird's back as he pursues bringing peace and honor to the clan.
On his first night at the king's hall, Keir is immediately attracted to the tall, modest woman. Helena is suddenly very aware of the huge Scot across the crowd. Helena likes that the Scot stands tall, like a man instead of the dandy pose all the courtiers have perfected. Edmund notices the Scot's interest and lets him know that he will not be tainting the Knyvett blood with his common-ness. Helena admired Keir's fearlessness when he stated his intentions to court her. Keir did not appear afraid of her brother, unlike the courtiers who bowed and scraped before Edmund.
Helena fights Edmund when he attacks Raelin in his efforts to sully her name (to lose her position of maid of honor). When the royal guards arrive and start condemning Raelin, Keir boldly steps forward and accuses Edmund of dishonorable behavior -- beating up on women. All the participants are brought before the king, where Helena determines to hold on to the one thing that Edmund can't control -- her honor. Helena knows she will pay a high price for speaking truly of Edmund's evil intentions.
Keir was relieved that he got an audience with the king so soon after arriving in London. James noticed that Keir was not cut from the same cloth as his father and suggested he stay at court and court the girl.
Raelin set into motion a chain of events that resulted in Keir's marriage to Helena. Raelin approached Keir to tell him that Helena was under her brother's control and had not been back to court for days. Keir rescued Helena from the attic where Edmund had locked her away. Instead of pounding Edmund into the ground, Keir sat down to gamble with Edmund and the rotten, tattered Lord Philip Ronchford -- whereupon, Keir won Helena. With the aid of the king, Keir was able to circumvent Edmund's machinations to prevent Helena's marriage to the Scot by attempting to sell her to Lord Ronchford.
Although Helena desires Keir, she does not want to be owned by any man. She does not trust that Keir will treat her kindly once he gets her back to his lands in Scotland, and fights falling in love. Keir, however, finally understands what Gwen was talking about and confesses his love of Helena. As Bedding The Enemy, is published under Brava Books (mildly erotic), the love scenes between Keir and Helena are frequent and graphically revealing.
Bedding The Enemy is an enjoyable read. The book is packed with {1} gorgeous, hunky Scots (who outshine English pretty-boys); {2} a huge, muscled, determined, generous hero; {3} an honorable, mistreated heroine (who comes to the hero's rescue after he rescues her; {4} hot, steamy, graphically-vivid, numerous love scenes; {5} interesting supporting characters; {6} plenty of action to speed the story along; {7} copious amounts of suspense concerning Keir and Helena's ability to overcome Edmund's plots and schemes to find their happily ever after.
Having read all three books of The McJames Clan Trilogy back to back, noticed several recurring features in all three books. Those likenesses included: {1} An all-evil villain who wreaks havoc on the heroine of the novel. {2} Lots of graphic sexuality that features the use of modernist terms to describe female anatomy. {3} Similar means of determining the awareness and attraction between the hero and heroine: {a} heroine discovers men have their own unique, tantalizing smell; {b} the heroine "blushes for" the hero; {c} the heroine's body reacts to the hero in her thoughts and in his proximity; {d} heroine is teased for undressing the hero with her eyes.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Clan Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Monday; March 28, 2011 : 1:31 p.m.)
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
| # | Date | Book Title | Hero | Heroine |
| 01. | 06-2009 | In Bed With A Stranger | Brodick McJames, Earl of Alcaon | Anne Copper |
| 02. | 02-2010 | In The Warrior's Bed | Cullen McJames, Laird Lampart | Bronwyn McQuade |
| 03. | 08-2010 | Bedding The Enemy | Keir McQuade, Baron Hurst | Helena Knyvett |
Books Similar to "Bedding The Enemy"
| Site | Author | Title | Series |
| 01.ff | McCarty, Monica | The Hawk | 02. The Highland Guards Series {4... |
| 02.ff | Johnson, Sophia | Risk Everything | 03. The Blackthorn Trilogy {3} |
| db | {none listed} |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Bedding The Enemy Quotations:
10 . . . to think against your place was to question the will of God.
123 . . . She felt crushed beneath the weight of so many hands pushing her toward what they wanted.
156 . . . It was an instant response and one that she could not control even after getting what she'd desired.
160 . . . That didn't stop her from wanting it. . . . She wanted her gallant knight; wanted a childhood fantasy so badly that it hurt.
182 . . . She wanted to resist thinking that way. . . . But emotions were fickle things that didn't listen to logic.
187 . . . She was speaking without thinking again. . . . Keir was the only man who swept her common sense aside simply by being near her. It was as irritating as it was exciting. . . .
253 . . . Men did not make sense. Their humor was incomprehensible. . . .
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Bedding The Enemy Reviews:
| Rated | Posted | Site | Notes, Comments, Etc. |
| 4.5 | 08-....-2010 | Affaire de Coeur | cannot find on website any more |
| 4.80 average | {5 reviews} | Amazon | as of: April 15, 2011 |
| 4.0 | 09-14-2010 | Coffee Time Romance | |
| 3.75 average | {6 reviews} | Good Reads | as of: April 15, 2011 |
| 5.0 | 08-01-2010 | Romance Junkies | also posted on Amazon, Good Reads |
| 4.0 | 06-19-2010 | RT {Romantic Times} Book Review | |
| 4.0 | {1 review} | Shelfari | as of: April 15, 2011 (my review) |
| 3.75 | 04-15-2011 | Wolf Bear Does Books | short version posted on Amazon, Good Reads, Shelfari |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your Bedding The Enemy review link to table, just ask
Friday, April 15, 2011
Mary Wine -- In the Warrior's Bed
Rated: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ . ♥ {4.25}
Action: ♠♠♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣.♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥. ♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦ / Suspense: ♠♠
Action: 3 / Emotion: 3.75 / Romance: 3.75 / Sensuous: 4 / Suspense: 2 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 0 / Tears: 0
Enjoyed second book in The McJames Clan Trilogy, In The Warrior's Bed. As a caveat, must bring to mind that not only is the genre of this book considered to be a Historical Romance, but because it is published under Kensington's Brava label, it is also considered to be of a slightly erotic nature. Even though this is only the second book in the series, noticed several similarities in the sensual and romantic development of Mary Wine's books. One, the heroine notices that the hero has a particularly appealing masculine smell. Two, the hero notices that the heroine blushes for him. Third, the heroine's body heats up and responds to not only the hero's presence, but also just thinking about him.
Wine paved the way for Bronwyn McQuade's appearance in the first book of the series, In Bed With A Stranger, when Cullen McJames and his cousin, Druce, teased each other about marrying the legendary hellcat of a daughter of the McQuade clan to try and end the thirty-five-year-old feud. It was revealed in her book, that Bronwyn's shrewish personality was falsely created by her father to keep men away from his daughter.
Erik McQuade was a truly mean-spirited man, and an even worse father. Erik kept reiterating to his two older sons, Liam and Sodac, that all that was important was land and amassing a fortune. Erik had married three times trying to increase his holdings. Erik mistreated Bronwyn's mother because she bore him a worthless daughter. Bronwyn's mother's land passed to her female descendants; thus, to keep Bronwyn's land, Erik must insure that not only must Bronwyn never marry, but she must never have a child.
Bronwyn is not totally without some love and support in her family. Bronwyn shares her father's hatred with Erik's third son, Keir McQuade. Although huge, thickly muscled Keir can wield a sword, he does not share Liam and Sodac's love for night marauding nor does he lick his father's boots. Thus, Erik relegates Keir to the mundane tasks of running Red Stone Castle. Although Erik worships money, he does not appreciate Keir's keen mind and keen investment skills.
Bronwyn is out riding, experiencing one last fling of freedom before her father returns from court when she happens upon a flirty, charming rogue and has no idea that he is none other than Cullen McJames. When Liam catches Bronwyn talking with Cullen, he hauls her before his father for chastisement. Erik takes advantage of the situation by dragging Bronwyn to court to announce to the great hall that Cullen McJames has been using his daughter. Such a statement should prevent any marriage offers for Bronwyn.
Bonnie [Copper], the youngest sister of Anne [Copper] McJames, plays a minor role in In The Warrior's Bed. Bonnie has the sight and tells Cullen he must go to court and gives him a package to take along. Bonnie's appearances are short but memorable. Bonnie's proxy marriage to an evil man (used to facilitate Anne's downfall in first book of series) necessitates that Bonnie stay with the McJames Clan at Sterling Castle to stay safe. Bonnie's story is open-ended . . . cannot help but want to read her story. (Blatant hint here that Mary Wine write a book for Bonnie.)
Cullen arrives at court to find courtiers whispering about him. His friend and neighbor, Alarik McKorey, explains that the McQuade laird has accused Cullen of dishonoring his daughter. Tend to wonder at the authenticity of King James Stuart's portrayal as a "friendly" kind of king as he calls Cullen into his private chamber to tell him that Bronwyn does not support her father's claim and discuss the ramifications of Erik's lies.
Cullen decided to kidnap Bronwyn and marry her for three reasons: One, Cullen was attracted to the lass he met while out riding. Two, Cullen wanted to remove the slur McQuade placed upon his name. Three, Cullen hoped the marriage would end the feud.
Cullen had not counted on Bronwyn's constant resistance to marriage. Bronwyn was under no false assumptions that the marriage would cause McQuade to end the feud -- she knew more blood would be spilled. Bronwyn had a constant internal battle because she was attracted to Cullen, but did not believe she was anything but a pawn being used by her father's enemies.
Even though Bronwyn is resistant to the idea of marriage, she could not help but be drawn to the muscled, gorgeous Cullen. Wine includes several bold, somewhat graphically-descriptive love scenes that are a necessary part of the erotic genre. The sexual tension between Bronwyn and Cullen was constant and a major part of the story. Cullen and Bronwyn find that there is a strong emotional connection between them as well. Cullen makes the effort to court Bronwyn after they return to Sterling Castle.
One other supporting character stood out in the book. Raelin McKorey (Alarik's sister) is one of Queen Anne's ladies-in-waiting. She overhears Erik telling Liam and Sodac about his plans to keep Bronwyn's land at all costs. She also plays a pivotal role in the action-packed, intriguing scene when McQuade comes into the king's inner chamber to demand the return of his daughter after Cullen takes Bronwyn.
The nit-picky stuff. {1} Cullen was well-described in all his masculine glory, but Bronwyn's physical description was over-looked. What color are her eyes? While it is exciting to view the hunky hero through the eyes of the heroine, would like to see the heroine receive the same descriptive treatment as the hero. {2} The Medieval flavor of the book felt contrived. Some of the anatomical terms did not fit the era. Was a "Scarlet women" even coined for an non-virtuous woman yet? The use of Scottish terms like "nae," "dinnae," and "ye," were thrown into the dialogue, but the rest of the conversation sounded more "English."
One thing that really draws the reader into the fabric of the story is Wine's use of bold, vivid, short one-liners to introduce a chapter or section of the book; including: {1} "Cullen McJames, stop tossing my baby." (8). {2} "Slut." (23) {3} "He was a fool." (27) "A fist pounded on her door at dawn." (29) {4} "The court of Scotland was filled with men who waited." (31) {5} "Cullen didn't waste time." (54) {6} "Locked away." (68) {7} "Her bed was moving." (78) {8} "She was nervous." (193) {9}"Dawn came too early." (223) {10} "Something wasn't right." (261) {11} "He didn't want to." (262)
In The Warrior's Bed is an enjoyable read. {1} Several action scenes are included to keep the story moving at a steady pace. {2} A bit of intrigue lingers as the reader wonders about how Cullen's and Bronwyn's marriage will affect the ongoing feud between the McJames and McQuades. {3} A lot of sexual tension permeates the entire story, supported by heated, graphic love scenes that add spice to the book. {4} The little emotional angst included, is shouldered by the heroine -- the hero has very minute moments of vulnerability. {5} Great descriptions about hunky Scotsman in their kilts add appeal. {6} The determined, handsome, charming hero is not over-shadowed by the bold, strong-willed heroine.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Clan Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Monday, March 28, 2011 : 10:49 a.m.)
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
Books Similar to "In the Warrior's Bed"
In The Warrior's Bed Quotations:
53 . . . There was no point in being bitter. Life was not fair, and men were greedy. . . .
104 . . . Her feelings were all jumbled and unrecognizable. . . .
138 . . . It was a harsh burden to carry, knowing that your sire was not an example to follow.
157 . . . She was suddenly so tired of struggling. Lying down in a warm bed tempted her almost beyond her endurance.
231 . . . It was rooted deep inside her, in that place where you didn't decide what you felt; the emotion was simply there like a living breathing thing. There was no decision making, only feeling it when it rose up to engulf you.
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♦ Facebook
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
In The Warrior's Bed Reviews:
Notes:
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your In The Warrior's Bed review link to table, just ask
- - - - - - - - -
♠ Mary Wine generously gifted me with an autographed copy of In The Warrior's Bed when won an autographed copy of her new release Highland Heat (March 2011) in the month-long "March Madness" (contests and giveaways) sponsored by Ashley March.
Action: ♠♠♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣.♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥. ♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦ / Suspense: ♠♠
Action: 3 / Emotion: 3.75 / Romance: 3.75 / Sensuous: 4 / Suspense: 2 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 0 / Tears: 0
Wine paved the way for Bronwyn McQuade's appearance in the first book of the series, In Bed With A Stranger, when Cullen McJames and his cousin, Druce, teased each other about marrying the legendary hellcat of a daughter of the McQuade clan to try and end the thirty-five-year-old feud. It was revealed in her book, that Bronwyn's shrewish personality was falsely created by her father to keep men away from his daughter.
Erik McQuade was a truly mean-spirited man, and an even worse father. Erik kept reiterating to his two older sons, Liam and Sodac, that all that was important was land and amassing a fortune. Erik had married three times trying to increase his holdings. Erik mistreated Bronwyn's mother because she bore him a worthless daughter. Bronwyn's mother's land passed to her female descendants; thus, to keep Bronwyn's land, Erik must insure that not only must Bronwyn never marry, but she must never have a child.
Bronwyn is not totally without some love and support in her family. Bronwyn shares her father's hatred with Erik's third son, Keir McQuade. Although huge, thickly muscled Keir can wield a sword, he does not share Liam and Sodac's love for night marauding nor does he lick his father's boots. Thus, Erik relegates Keir to the mundane tasks of running Red Stone Castle. Although Erik worships money, he does not appreciate Keir's keen mind and keen investment skills.
Bronwyn is out riding, experiencing one last fling of freedom before her father returns from court when she happens upon a flirty, charming rogue and has no idea that he is none other than Cullen McJames. When Liam catches Bronwyn talking with Cullen, he hauls her before his father for chastisement. Erik takes advantage of the situation by dragging Bronwyn to court to announce to the great hall that Cullen McJames has been using his daughter. Such a statement should prevent any marriage offers for Bronwyn.
Bonnie [Copper], the youngest sister of Anne [Copper] McJames, plays a minor role in In The Warrior's Bed. Bonnie has the sight and tells Cullen he must go to court and gives him a package to take along. Bonnie's appearances are short but memorable. Bonnie's proxy marriage to an evil man (used to facilitate Anne's downfall in first book of series) necessitates that Bonnie stay with the McJames Clan at Sterling Castle to stay safe. Bonnie's story is open-ended . . . cannot help but want to read her story. (Blatant hint here that Mary Wine write a book for Bonnie.)
Cullen arrives at court to find courtiers whispering about him. His friend and neighbor, Alarik McKorey, explains that the McQuade laird has accused Cullen of dishonoring his daughter. Tend to wonder at the authenticity of King James Stuart's portrayal as a "friendly" kind of king as he calls Cullen into his private chamber to tell him that Bronwyn does not support her father's claim and discuss the ramifications of Erik's lies.
Cullen decided to kidnap Bronwyn and marry her for three reasons: One, Cullen was attracted to the lass he met while out riding. Two, Cullen wanted to remove the slur McQuade placed upon his name. Three, Cullen hoped the marriage would end the feud.
Cullen had not counted on Bronwyn's constant resistance to marriage. Bronwyn was under no false assumptions that the marriage would cause McQuade to end the feud -- she knew more blood would be spilled. Bronwyn had a constant internal battle because she was attracted to Cullen, but did not believe she was anything but a pawn being used by her father's enemies.
Even though Bronwyn is resistant to the idea of marriage, she could not help but be drawn to the muscled, gorgeous Cullen. Wine includes several bold, somewhat graphically-descriptive love scenes that are a necessary part of the erotic genre. The sexual tension between Bronwyn and Cullen was constant and a major part of the story. Cullen and Bronwyn find that there is a strong emotional connection between them as well. Cullen makes the effort to court Bronwyn after they return to Sterling Castle.
One other supporting character stood out in the book. Raelin McKorey (Alarik's sister) is one of Queen Anne's ladies-in-waiting. She overhears Erik telling Liam and Sodac about his plans to keep Bronwyn's land at all costs. She also plays a pivotal role in the action-packed, intriguing scene when McQuade comes into the king's inner chamber to demand the return of his daughter after Cullen takes Bronwyn.
The nit-picky stuff. {1} Cullen was well-described in all his masculine glory, but Bronwyn's physical description was over-looked. What color are her eyes? While it is exciting to view the hunky hero through the eyes of the heroine, would like to see the heroine receive the same descriptive treatment as the hero. {2} The Medieval flavor of the book felt contrived. Some of the anatomical terms did not fit the era. Was a "Scarlet women" even coined for an non-virtuous woman yet? The use of Scottish terms like "nae," "dinnae," and "ye," were thrown into the dialogue, but the rest of the conversation sounded more "English."
One thing that really draws the reader into the fabric of the story is Wine's use of bold, vivid, short one-liners to introduce a chapter or section of the book; including: {1} "Cullen McJames, stop tossing my baby." (8). {2} "Slut." (23) {3} "He was a fool." (27) "A fist pounded on her door at dawn." (29) {4} "The court of Scotland was filled with men who waited." (31) {5} "Cullen didn't waste time." (54) {6} "Locked away." (68) {7} "Her bed was moving." (78) {8} "She was nervous." (193) {9}"Dawn came too early." (223) {10} "Something wasn't right." (261) {11} "He didn't want to." (262)
In The Warrior's Bed is an enjoyable read. {1} Several action scenes are included to keep the story moving at a steady pace. {2} A bit of intrigue lingers as the reader wonders about how Cullen's and Bronwyn's marriage will affect the ongoing feud between the McJames and McQuades. {3} A lot of sexual tension permeates the entire story, supported by heated, graphic love scenes that add spice to the book. {4} The little emotional angst included, is shouldered by the heroine -- the hero has very minute moments of vulnerability. {5} Great descriptions about hunky Scotsman in their kilts add appeal. {6} The determined, handsome, charming hero is not over-shadowed by the bold, strong-willed heroine.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Clan Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Monday, March 28, 2011 : 10:49 a.m.)
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
| # | Date | Book Title | Hero | Heroine |
| 01. | 06-2009 | In Bed With A Stranger | Brodick McJames, Earl of Alcaon | Anne Copper |
| 02. | 02-2010 | In The Warrior's Bed | Cullen McJames, Laird Lampart | Bronwyn McQuade |
| 03. | 08-2010 | Bedding The Enemy | Keir McQuade, Baron Hurst | Helena Knyvett |
Books Similar to "In the Warrior's Bed"
| Site | Author | Title | Series |
| 01.ff | McCarty, Monica | The Chief | 01. The Highland Guards Series {4... |
| 02.ff | Howell, Hannah | Highland Protector | 12. The Murray Clan Series {20... |
| 03.ff | Johnson, Sophia | Risk Everything | 03. The Blackthorn Trilogy {3} |
| 04.db | Eden, Cynthia | Eternal Hunter | 01. The Night Watch Series {4... |
| 05.db | Alexander, R.G. | Regina In The Sun | 01. The Children of The Goddess Series {1... |
| 06.db | Kleypas, Lisa | Then Came You | 01. The Derek Craven Series {3} |
| 07.db | Hoyt, Elizabeth | The Raven Prince | 01. The Princes Trilogy {3} |
| 08.db | Bourne, Joanna | The Spymaster's Lady | 02. The Spymasters Series {4... |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
In The Warrior's Bed Quotations:
53 . . . There was no point in being bitter. Life was not fair, and men were greedy. . . .
104 . . . Her feelings were all jumbled and unrecognizable. . . .
138 . . . It was a harsh burden to carry, knowing that your sire was not an example to follow.
157 . . . She was suddenly so tired of struggling. Lying down in a warm bed tempted her almost beyond her endurance.
231 . . . It was rooted deep inside her, in that place where you didn't decide what you felt; the emotion was simply there like a living breathing thing. There was no decision making, only feeling it when it rose up to engulf you.
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
In The Warrior's Bed Reviews:
| Rated | Posted | Site | Notes, Comments, Etc. |
| 4.0 | 06-....-2010 | A Romance Review | |
| 5.0 | 02-....-2010 | Affaire de Coeur | unable to find on website any longer |
| B- / hot | 04-13-2010 | All About Romance | |
| 3.40 average | {15 reviews} | Amazon | as of: April 14, 2011 |
| 4.0 | -- | Bella Online | |
| 3.0 | 09-14-2010 | Coffee Time Romance | |
| 4.0 | ....-....-2010 | Curled Up With A Good Book | |
| 3.65 average | {19 reviews} | Good Reads | as of: April 14, 2011 |
| 4.0 / hot | 03-30-2010 | RT {Romantic Times} Book Reviews | |
| 3.86 average | {7 reviews} | Shelfari | as of: April 14, 2011 |
| 4.0 | 03-12-2010 | The Romance Reader | |
| 4.25 | 04-14-2011 | Wolf Bear Does Books | short version posted on Amazon, Good Reads, Shelfari |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your In The Warrior's Bed review link to table, just ask
- - - - - - - - -
♠ Mary Wine generously gifted me with an autographed copy of In The Warrior's Bed when won an autographed copy of her new release Highland Heat (March 2011) in the month-long "March Madness" (contests and giveaways) sponsored by Ashley March.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Mary Wine -- In Bed With A Stranger
Rated: ♥ ♥ ♥ . ♥ {3.85}
Action: ♠♠.♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦.♦ / Suspense: ♠♠.♠
Action: 2.5 / Emotion: 4 / Romance: 4 / Sensuous: 4.5 / Suspense: 2.5 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 1 / Tears: 0
What an introduction into the world of Mary Wine. Unable to put down In Bed With A Stranger (book one in The McJames Clan Trilogy) from the first sentence until the last period. Book was immediately and constantly engrossing. One of the magnificent things about Wine's writing was that she was able to deliver pertinent details quickly, concisely and interestingly.
Found it appealing when the villain of the book, Lady Philipa, Countess of Warwickshire, was introduced while grousing about having to give her treasured pearls to her husband's mistress (Ivy Copper) at the birth of the heroine, the Earl of Warwickshire's bastard daughter, Anne Copper. Lady Philipa's selfishness was featured as the beginning stages of Philipa's extreme hatred and bitterness caused her to develop into an evil, vindictive woman -- all because she was unwilling to take a second risk of dying of childbed fever. A quote by a maid who served Philipa cleverly set the stage for the entire plot:
Anne's story started twenty-six years after her birth when Philipa plotted to save her darling, spoiled rotten daughter from having to share the bed of her Scottish husband. It was incredibly clever that Henry Howard, the fifth Earl of Warwickshire (Anne's father, Philipa's husband) was never named until page 296 of a 310-page book. Even though the Earl played a vital and important role in the book, his name as well as his presence was blatantly absent throughout -- because he was constantly away at court -- leaving Philipa to wield her power without censure.
Philipa's plan is to place the hated bastard daughter in the Scot's bed until after an heir is born. Then her blue-blooded daughter can take her position as mistress of the Scot's home (all without having to suffer the marriage bed). It is obvious that Philipa's plan is flawed because no man worth his salt is going to believe that the selfish, spoiled Mary is the same woman as sweet-natured, considerate Anne.
Hunky hero, Brodick McJames, Earl of Alcaon is endowed with enough intelligence and strength of will to never fall for such a foolish plan. Brodick had been negotiating with the Earl of Warwickshire for two years to marry his daughter -- all for the betterment of his clan. Brodick is not pleased with the prospect of having to take as wife an English court lass (deceitful, conniving creatures who shamefully displayed their breasts).
Brodick is surprised when his veiled bride {1} does not complain on the arduous return to Sterling and {2} seems to have a kind, unspoiled nature. Anne has a difficult time keeping up the appearance of a spoiled English court lady and finally just decides to be "Anne" instead of "Mary." Found it clever that Brodick referred to Anne as "wife" which reduced the use of the name "Mary" throughout the book.
Even though Anne tried to keep Brodick from consummating the marriage (to thwart Philipa's devious plan), she failed. Brodick is amazed that he is attracted to his wife. Brodick is pleased that his wife "blushes for him." Anne is even more amazed at her attraction to her husband. Who would have thought a man had his own unique tantalizing smell? As expected, Brodick and Anne make love with heated, graphically-descriptive love scenes. The love scenes used what seemed to be modern terms for female anatomy, which took away some of the medieval flavor of the book. Brodick and Anne could not keep their hands from the other, but they were becoming emotionally invested in the relationship as well.
There were a few supporting characters that were briefly described and drew interest. Cullen McJames, Brodick's brother, was a charming man who liked to tease his brother, but showed his strong Scot's ferocity and determination. Wine paved the way for Cullen's story (book two, In The Warrior's Bed) with the daughter of the feuding, raiding neighbors, Bronwyn McQuade.
Druce McJames, Brodick's cousin, was another impressive character. It seemed there should be a story for this teasing, strong braw Scotsman. Another teasing character (whose ease around powerful men revealed to Anne her own discomfort), was Brodick's sixteen-year-old sister, Fiona. Fiona was only around long enough to get a quick glimpse of a strong-willed teen.
Bonnie Copper, Anne's beautiful youngest sister, puts in a minimal appearance, but her character is powerfully compelling. She is gifted with second sight, so Ivy and Anne have spent their lives keeping her protected from dangerous witch hunters. (Bonnie foretells of Anne's happily-ever-after.) Don't know if Wine is paving the way for Bonnie's own book, but the fact that Philipa eventually marries Bonnie by proxy to Cameron Yoeman (her top henchman) to keep Anne in line has the makings for another interesting book. (Really hate the open-ended cliff-hanger of not knowing what is going to happen to Bonnie.)
The matriarchal midwife, Agnes, makes one strong powerful appearance that adds more medieval flavor to the book. Agnes would not accept payment from the Laird for her services (inspecting his wife), yet Brodick notes the pride with which Agnes displays the brooch his mother gifted to Agnes years ago. Little tidbits of real life activities add greatly to the enjoyment of the book.
Really like the great chapter or section opening gambits featured in In Bed With A Stranger. Several include: {1} "She shall not touch my pearls." (opening sentence). {2} "The saints had truly deserted her." (102). {3} "Brodick was tense." (111). {4} "She did not suffer inactivity well." (145). {5} "A man should not be able to hurt her feelings." (154). {6} "Half of the men returned at dawn." (179). {7} "The bells didn't ring upon his return." (192). {8} "His wife's chamber was too cold." (194). {9} "Brodick was a magnificent sight." (212). {10} "Arriving at court was not an easy thing." (242). {11} "Surcoats were evil." (252). {12} "Helen screamed for the first time in years." (261).
What is it with names? Lady Philipa, Countess of Warwickshire and Henry Howard, Earl of Warwickshire have a daughter named Mary "Spencer" (116). The back cover declares her as Mary "Stanford." Anne notices that Brodick's retainers are just as loyal to him as the Warwickshire villagers were loyal to the Stanfords (144). This is very confusing. Is Mary's last name {1} Spencer, {2} Stanford, or should it be {3} Howard?
The little things about In Bed With A Stranger that were disappointing included: {1} lack of description of the heroine. Yes, it was enjoyable to gaze at the gorgeous muscled body of Brodick through Anne's eyes, but would have liked to have been gifted with just as many insights into Anne's appearance as Brodick's. (May have missed it, but can only imagine that Anne's eyes were the same blue as Bonnie's since Anne's eye color was not revealed.) {2} Near the end of the book when the action and suspense was fast and compelling, the attention to detail that had pervaded the story until then was missing.
All in all, In Bed With A Stranger is a great read. It has all the characteristics of a great Cinderella story. {1} a determined, gorgeous, well-built hero (sorry, no angst); {2} an intelligent, self-sufficient, down-trodden heroine, who must overcome impossible odds to get her happily-ever-after; {3} a scheming, evil villain to be dispatched; {4} a bit of everyday action to keep the story moving; {5} enough suspense about how villain's machinations will be overcome makes story intriguing; {6} lots of heated, graphic love scenes; {7} several interesting supporting characters; and {8} a tense, surprising ending.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Sunday, March 27, 2011 : 1:56 a.m.)
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
Books Similar to "In Bed With A Stranger"
In Bed With A Stranger Quotations:
145 . . . To argue against your place was to question God's will in putting you there.
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♦ Facebook
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
In Bed With A Stranger Reviews:
Notes:
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your In Bed With A Stranger review link to table, just ask
Action: ♠♠.♠ / Emotion: ♣♣♣♣ / Romance: ♥♥♥♥ / Sensuous: ♦♦♦♦.♦ / Suspense: ♠♠.♠
Action: 2.5 / Emotion: 4 / Romance: 4 / Sensuous: 4.5 / Suspense: 2.5 / Historical Flavor: 3 // Humor: 1 / Tears: 0
Found it appealing when the villain of the book, Lady Philipa, Countess of Warwickshire, was introduced while grousing about having to give her treasured pearls to her husband's mistress (Ivy Copper) at the birth of the heroine, the Earl of Warwickshire's bastard daughter, Anne Copper. Lady Philipa's selfishness was featured as the beginning stages of Philipa's extreme hatred and bitterness caused her to develop into an evil, vindictive woman -- all because she was unwilling to take a second risk of dying of childbed fever. A quote by a maid who served Philipa cleverly set the stage for the entire plot:
"The mistress will poison herself with such meanness. It'll bring dark times to everyone living on the land."Mary Wine's writing style added to the medieval flavor of the book. Several customs relating to medieval culture were described. For instance: {1} Mary Spencer (Philipa's one and only child) was passed over by quite a few men at court because noblemen looked at the fecundity of the mother while considering a prospective wife. {2} To delay her marriage's consummation, Anne asked for the time-honored tradition of having a nobleman's wife inspected by a midwife for successful childbearing.
Anne's story started twenty-six years after her birth when Philipa plotted to save her darling, spoiled rotten daughter from having to share the bed of her Scottish husband. It was incredibly clever that Henry Howard, the fifth Earl of Warwickshire (Anne's father, Philipa's husband) was never named until page 296 of a 310-page book. Even though the Earl played a vital and important role in the book, his name as well as his presence was blatantly absent throughout -- because he was constantly away at court -- leaving Philipa to wield her power without censure.
Philipa's plan is to place the hated bastard daughter in the Scot's bed until after an heir is born. Then her blue-blooded daughter can take her position as mistress of the Scot's home (all without having to suffer the marriage bed). It is obvious that Philipa's plan is flawed because no man worth his salt is going to believe that the selfish, spoiled Mary is the same woman as sweet-natured, considerate Anne.
Hunky hero, Brodick McJames, Earl of Alcaon is endowed with enough intelligence and strength of will to never fall for such a foolish plan. Brodick had been negotiating with the Earl of Warwickshire for two years to marry his daughter -- all for the betterment of his clan. Brodick is not pleased with the prospect of having to take as wife an English court lass (deceitful, conniving creatures who shamefully displayed their breasts).
Brodick is surprised when his veiled bride {1} does not complain on the arduous return to Sterling and {2} seems to have a kind, unspoiled nature. Anne has a difficult time keeping up the appearance of a spoiled English court lady and finally just decides to be "Anne" instead of "Mary." Found it clever that Brodick referred to Anne as "wife" which reduced the use of the name "Mary" throughout the book.
Even though Anne tried to keep Brodick from consummating the marriage (to thwart Philipa's devious plan), she failed. Brodick is amazed that he is attracted to his wife. Brodick is pleased that his wife "blushes for him." Anne is even more amazed at her attraction to her husband. Who would have thought a man had his own unique tantalizing smell? As expected, Brodick and Anne make love with heated, graphically-descriptive love scenes. The love scenes used what seemed to be modern terms for female anatomy, which took away some of the medieval flavor of the book. Brodick and Anne could not keep their hands from the other, but they were becoming emotionally invested in the relationship as well.
There were a few supporting characters that were briefly described and drew interest. Cullen McJames, Brodick's brother, was a charming man who liked to tease his brother, but showed his strong Scot's ferocity and determination. Wine paved the way for Cullen's story (book two, In The Warrior's Bed) with the daughter of the feuding, raiding neighbors, Bronwyn McQuade.
Druce McJames, Brodick's cousin, was another impressive character. It seemed there should be a story for this teasing, strong braw Scotsman. Another teasing character (whose ease around powerful men revealed to Anne her own discomfort), was Brodick's sixteen-year-old sister, Fiona. Fiona was only around long enough to get a quick glimpse of a strong-willed teen.
Bonnie Copper, Anne's beautiful youngest sister, puts in a minimal appearance, but her character is powerfully compelling. She is gifted with second sight, so Ivy and Anne have spent their lives keeping her protected from dangerous witch hunters. (Bonnie foretells of Anne's happily-ever-after.) Don't know if Wine is paving the way for Bonnie's own book, but the fact that Philipa eventually marries Bonnie by proxy to Cameron Yoeman (her top henchman) to keep Anne in line has the makings for another interesting book. (Really hate the open-ended cliff-hanger of not knowing what is going to happen to Bonnie.)
The matriarchal midwife, Agnes, makes one strong powerful appearance that adds more medieval flavor to the book. Agnes would not accept payment from the Laird for her services (inspecting his wife), yet Brodick notes the pride with which Agnes displays the brooch his mother gifted to Agnes years ago. Little tidbits of real life activities add greatly to the enjoyment of the book.
Really like the great chapter or section opening gambits featured in In Bed With A Stranger. Several include: {1} "She shall not touch my pearls." (opening sentence). {2} "The saints had truly deserted her." (102). {3} "Brodick was tense." (111). {4} "She did not suffer inactivity well." (145). {5} "A man should not be able to hurt her feelings." (154). {6} "Half of the men returned at dawn." (179). {7} "The bells didn't ring upon his return." (192). {8} "His wife's chamber was too cold." (194). {9} "Brodick was a magnificent sight." (212). {10} "Arriving at court was not an easy thing." (242). {11} "Surcoats were evil." (252). {12} "Helen screamed for the first time in years." (261).
What is it with names? Lady Philipa, Countess of Warwickshire and Henry Howard, Earl of Warwickshire have a daughter named Mary "Spencer" (116). The back cover declares her as Mary "Stanford." Anne notices that Brodick's retainers are just as loyal to him as the Warwickshire villagers were loyal to the Stanfords (144). This is very confusing. Is Mary's last name {1} Spencer, {2} Stanford, or should it be {3} Howard?
The little things about In Bed With A Stranger that were disappointing included: {1} lack of description of the heroine. Yes, it was enjoyable to gaze at the gorgeous muscled body of Brodick through Anne's eyes, but would have liked to have been gifted with just as many insights into Anne's appearance as Brodick's. (May have missed it, but can only imagine that Anne's eyes were the same blue as Bonnie's since Anne's eye color was not revealed.) {2} Near the end of the book when the action and suspense was fast and compelling, the attention to detail that had pervaded the story until then was missing.
All in all, In Bed With A Stranger is a great read. It has all the characteristics of a great Cinderella story. {1} a determined, gorgeous, well-built hero (sorry, no angst); {2} an intelligent, self-sufficient, down-trodden heroine, who must overcome impossible odds to get her happily-ever-after; {3} a scheming, evil villain to be dispatched; {4} a bit of everyday action to keep the story moving; {5} enough suspense about how villain's machinations will be overcome makes story intriguing; {6} lots of heated, graphic love scenes; {7} several interesting supporting characters; and {8} a tense, surprising ending.
Caveat: Being an fan of books which feature more {1} action and adventure; {2} suspense; and {3} the resolution of deeper emotional angst, find that The McJames Trilogy books, while enjoyable, will not find their way on my "to be re-read" list.
--Vonda M. Reid (Sunday, March 27, 2011 : 1:56 a.m.)
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Books In The Series: "The McJames Clan Trilogy"
| # | Date | Book Title | Hero | Heroine |
| 01. | 06-2009 | In Bed With A Stranger | Brodick McJames, Earl of Alcaon | Anne Copper |
| 02. | 02-2010 | In The Warrior's Bed | Cullen McJames, Laird Lampart | Bronwyn McQuade |
| 03. | 08-2010 | Bedding The Enemy | Keir McQuade, Baron Hurst | Helena Knyvett |
Books Similar to "In Bed With A Stranger"
| Site | Author | Title | Series |
| 01.ff | McCarty, Monica | The Chief | 01. The Highland Guards Series {4... |
| 02.ff | Howell, Hannah | Highland Protector | 12. The Murray Clan Series {20... |
| 03.ff | MacGillivray, Deborah | A Restless Knight | 01. The Dragons of Challon Series {4... |
| 04.ff | Fletcher, Donna | Return of the Rogue | 01. The Sinclare Brothers {4... |
| 05.db | Johnson, Alissa | McAlistair's Fortune | 03. The Providence Trilogy {3} |
| 06.db | Welfonder, Sue-Ellen | Tails of Love | Anthology (with Lori Foster, Stella Cameron) |
| 07.db | Page, Sharon | Sin | |
| 08.db | Page, Sharon | Black Silk | |
| 09.db | Marcos, Michelle | Wickedly Ever After | 03. The Pleasure Emporium Trilogy {3} |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
In Bed With A Stranger Quotations:
145 . . . To argue against your place was to question God's will in putting you there.
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Mary Wine
♥ Website / Blog
♠ Fantastic Fiction
♣ FictionDB
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
In Bed With A Stranger Reviews:
| Rated | Posted | Site | Notes, Comments, Etc. |
| 5.00 | 01/02-2010 | Affaire de Coeur | cannot find again on website |
| 4.00 average | {20 reviews} | Amazon . com | as of: April 13, 2011 |
| 4.0 | 05-27-2009 | Bookaholics Romance Book Club | not on website / posted on Amazon, Good Reads, Shelfari |
| 5.0 | 07-08-2009 | Borders True Romance | also posted on Amazon (Joyfully Reviewed) |
| 5.0 | 09-14-2010 | Coffee Time Romance | |
| 3.0 | 05-19-2010 | Curled Up With A Good Book | also posted on Amazon |
| 5.0 | 05-29-2009 | Genre Go Round Reviews | also posted on Amazon (Harriet Klausner) |
| 3.76 average | {23 reviews} | Good Reads | as of: April 13, 2011 |
| 5.0 | 07-08-2009 | Joyfully Reviewed | not on website / posted on Amazon (Borders True Romance) |
| 3.75 | 05-03-2010 | Michelle & Leslie's Book Picks | also posted on Good Reads |
| 5.0 | 04-02-2009 | Romance Junkies | also posted on Amazon |
| 4.0 / hot | 03-30-2010 | RT Book Reviews | |
| 4.50 average | {4 reviews} | Shelfari | as of: April 13, 2011 |
| 4.0 | -- | The Romance Readers Connection | |
| 4.5 / hot | 05-09-2009 | Two Lips Reviews | |
| 3.85 | 03-27-2011 | Wolf Bear Does Books | short version posted on Amazon, Good Reads, Shelfari |
♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦ . . . . . . . . . . ♠ . . . . . . . . . . ♣ . . . . . . . . . . ♥ . . . . . . . . . . ♦
Notes:
♥ Disclaimer: I purchased this book.
♥ Very Subjective Rating
♥ Willing to share Cheat Sheet
♦ in whole or in part
♦ WordPerfect or PDF
♣ Will add your In Bed With A Stranger review link to table, just ask
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