To Marry a Scottish Laird by Lynsay Sands, narrated by Kieron Elliott

January 4, 2021 By Leave a Comment


To Marry a Scottish Laird by Lynsay Sands, narrated by Kieron Elliott
Publisher: HarperAudio
Genre: Historical, Suspense/Mystery/Thriller, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Xeranthemum

Highlander Campbell Sinclair is no stranger to battle, so when he sees a lad attacked by bandits, he jumps into the fray. He didn’t count on being stabbed. Grateful to the boy for nursing him back to health, Cam offers to accompany Jo safely to his destination. But when he accidentally comes across the lad bathing in the river, Cam discovers that Jo is actually Joan . . . with the most sinful of curves.

Joan promised her mother that she would deliver a scroll to the clan MacKay. But traveling alone is dangerous, even disguised as a boy. When a Scottish warrior lends his aid, she is more than relieved . . . until he surprises her with lingering kisses and caresses that prove her disguise hasn’t fooled him. As their passion ignites, will the secrets of the scroll force a wedding . . . and lead to a love she’s never known?

I’ve read many a book by Lynsay Sands but I’ve never listened to one in audio format before. I think I’m in love with the book, the hero, and the narrator.

I have enjoyed Ms. Sands’ Scottish heroes in the past because they are usually so hunky, heroic and sexy. The heroines can be plucky, strong, and engaging and are always a good fit for the hero. Until now, I’ve only read them in my head and I have no gift for accents. Bring on the narrator in the audio book, Kieron Elliot, and my book experience just shot to new heights. It was an overload of pleasure and enjoyment. The narrator had a BROGUE!!!

Some common adverse effects reported by people include dizziness, headache, upset stomach, nasal congestion, blurred vision etc. generic soft cialis Thus many viagra viagra sildenafil people in one way or another indulge in different kinds of martial arts discipline during their lifetime. Kamagra jellies’ formula is similar to the original formula of Sildenafil Citrate, both therapeutically and biologically. cialis wholesale In their opinion, if someone has posted their email address for all to see, then other people have the right to contact that person and ask them questions or send them offers. pill sildenafil devensec.com I thought Cam was a fine hero. He showed his honor early on when he came upon a young man being beaten. Not for a second did he hesitate to come to the lad’s rescue even though he was outnumbered. The camaraderie between the two as they traveled to deliver the mysterious scroll the lad had in his care was clear, comfortable and sweet. That complacent feeling was yanked right out of the story when the hero came across Jo clearing the dust of travel off in a river. The narrator brought to life Cam’s astonishment when he discovered Jo was a Joan. I listened to that part twice, grinning from ear to ear both times.

At that moment I realized that Joan was no ordinary heroine. She had qualities that made “Jo” earn Cam’s respect, but as a woman? It was doubly impressive because Joan wasn’t a fainter, she’s a doer. I have to respect a person who doesn’t let life hold her down after being delivered devastating news – the loss of her mom and the place she called home. I appreciated that Cam came to the same conclusion – being a woman did not change the fact that she earned his respect. But, once he knew that he was a she, that opened up a Pandora’s Box – they were traveling alone and the chemistry was starting to sizzle and pop. Romance readers know it’s only a matter of time.

Since this is an audio book, I want to share an observation. Some narrators fit the characters they’re reading, male or female. There are some male narrators whose voice simply doesn’t lend itself well to a higher pitched lady’s voice. Not so with Mr. Elliott. He brought Cam’s growly lower voice to life and did an effortless job of creating a convincing and ear pleasing voice for Joan.

Supposedly it should take about 10 hours to listen to the audio version of the book, but like Ms. Sands’ print novels, time flew as I lost myself within the story. A 384 page book would take me about 3.5 uninterrupted hours to read, so it couldn’t have taken me that much longer to listen, did it? I didn’t fast forward even once – it was ALL GREAT! That’s because the story was great. All the characters – from Joan’s aunt and uncle, Cam’s mom and dad, the ladies that were there to marry Cam … yes, there was quite the mix-up that made things interesting over all.

There was a bit of suspense too because someone is trying to harm Joan. I thought for sure I knew who it was. The mystery to solve is, why? Why would someone go to those lengths to get rid of her? And, how far was the villain willing to go? The answer surprised me.

I thought I was going to blush scarlet when the narrator started reading the bed scenes between Cam and Joan. It wasn’t as bad as I feared because I forgot how well Ms. Sands writes them. They serve a purpose and weren’t placed there just to titillate. So, I listened and blushed just a little.

To Marry a Scottish Laird had every element I enjoy in a well-written romance. A plot that kept my interest, parts that made me gasp and scenes that made me giggle and chortle. There were surprises aplenty with near misses as Joan survived the attempts to harm her. Best of all was the romance flourishing between the two of them and the happy ever after delivered with a wonderful closing scene in the epilogue. I strongly believe that Cam and Joan’s romance story is a perfect read in any format, audio or print and I credit that to the strong writing skills that Ms. Sands is known for. I’m a happy … listener.

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Tangled in Tinsel by N. Jade Gray

December 15, 2020 By 3 Comments


Tangled in Tinsel by N. Jade Gray
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

Sugar Plum fairies eat your heart out. Madison Reynolds has visions of a different kind dancing in her head. Home for the holidays in Cedar Bend, Colorado, Madison must focus on helping her bedridden pregnant sister, not fantasize about the one who got away. But how is she supposed to forget about her high school crush when she bumps into him at every turn?

From the moment Ryder Sanders untangled the reindeer antlers from Madison’s hair his Christmas season appeared brighter. The time spent in her company leaves him more smitten. So, why does she still treat him as if he has cooties? They’re not in high school anymore.

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Oh my gosh, I have to start my review by talking about the heroine, Madison. I completely related to her in every way. Seriously, this book could have been written about my years in high school. I nearly died laughing throughout the entire story at the similarities between Madison and me. The connection I felt with Madison started on the first page and didn’t stop there. I couldn’t wipe the smile off of my face. I’m still sitting here shaking my head, still beaming with a quirky smile. I thought I was the only person on earth that had a crush on a boy for all four years in high school, yet couldn’t even look or speak to him without hyperventilating while turning beet red. It was painful. Technically Madison is a book character, so I may still be the only human who, to this day, probably wouldn’t be able to form two words if I ran into my high school crush. This element alone in the story made my day and leaves me no choice but to recommend this book.

Honestly, the entire cast of characters were hilarious. Madison’s four-year-old nephew, Taggert, was a hoot. As a retired preschool teacher and a mother of two boys, I can testify that the author was accurate regarding a preschooler’s favorite food, to the innocent yet inappropriate comments a four old can make, and the shenanigans they can get themselves into. Taggert’s dad, Jim, had me roaring regarding his cooking skills. I could go on and on but I suggest the book is worth the read just to meet all the other characters.

Just so you know, not all the characters made me feel warm and fuzzy. There was one named Pilar who consistently stirred the pot. Pilar was unlikable and I would have guiltily enjoyed seeing her suffer far more than she did because of all the trouble she caused. However, the story would not have been as entertaining as it was without Pilar.

The heroine, Ryder Sanders, was so much like my high school crush I could barely take it. The chemistry between Ryder and Madison was very romantic. I looked up my high school crush on Facebook and actually found him. He was bald with a dad-bod. I’m pretty sure, despite his aging, I’d probably still not be able to form two coherent sentences. LOL! I’m so glad that Madison had her happily ever after with Ryder.

Concerning all the technical writing, plot creativeness, plot flow, predictability versus plot twists and everything else, I was impressed with all of it. I especially enjoyed the time of year that it took place in. Christmas is my favorite season.

I don’t have any qualms recommending Tangled in Tinsel. If fact, I think the book would make a great Christmas gift.

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Snowed In by Jessica Calla

December 14, 2020 By 1 Comment


Snowed In by Jessica Calla
Publisher: Champagne Books
Genre: Contemporary, Romance, Holiday
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

During a magical holiday season, Emma and Andrew keep finding themselves snowed in together as they face their pasts and fall in love.

Emma Ballard, a retired supermodel, has been the acting CEO and the face of her family’s clothing business for the past five years, living the busy corporate life in New York City. She meets the Jersey branch IT supervisor, theater-nerd Andrew Mooney, when she gets stuck in a snowstorm after an office function.

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Although neither Emma nor Andrew are quite ready for a relationship, and canoodling is against company policy, the holiday spirit of Manhattan is magical and contagious. As fate and Mother Nature would have it, their time snowed in together gives them the chance to finally face their pasts and fall in love.

Have you ever read a book and wondered how the characters were doing after the book ended, as if they were real people? It’s one of the reasons I cherish stories that include an epilogue. “Snowed In” has the most unique epilogue I’ve ever read in my life. It included “One year later” “Two years after that” and “One year after that”. It was like being at your favorite rock band concert and they keep coming back for encores. There are some books that, when I’m near the end, I will put down and walk away because I don’t want it to be over. I desperately want to finish it but I know I’ll be sad when it’s done. When I have a book like that and there is an epilogue it is like winning the lottery. In this case, I won the lottery three times.

The heroine, Emma and the hero, Andrew, made for one of the most absolutely sweetest romance stories I’ve read in a long time. My mother would love this book for Christmas. If you are looking for a sweet, heartwarming love story than this is the book to read. The holiday season is the best time of year to read this book because it is full of Christmas spirit. I enjoyed reading it all snuggled up on the couch next to my Christmas tree.

From the first page to the last page, the writing style, character development, plot, setting and pace all kept me enraptured. There is a plethora of entertaining moments that will make you chuckle.

If the synopsis tempts you at all then I’d encourage you to pick up this book and snuggle up for a few hours. I personally think it’s a great book to insert in a hot chocolate gift basket for anyone who enjoys a tender romance.

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Fae Child by Jane-Holly Meissner

December 11, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Fae Child by Jane-Holly Meissner
Publisher: Inkshares
Genre: Middle Grade (8 – 12 y.o.), Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Contemporary
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

When eight-year-old Abbie Brown discovers a quiet pool of water while wandering through the woods behind her Oregon home, she wades out into it and discovers she’s not alone. A wild-haired boy in green stares at her from the other side of the water. Mesmerized, Abbie reaches down to him, and is yanked underwater.

She emerges on the other side as an unwelcome visitor to the Otherworld, the land of the Fae, with only the boy Foster to guide her. Back in Oregon, a changeling lookalike has taken her place, bonding with her mother while her father, hiding a secret of his own, views the “girl” with suspicion.

In the courts of the Fae a truce has long been in place between Winter and Summer. What havoc might a human child wreak in the careful machinations of beings older than time? And to what lengths will Abbie’s father go to get her back?

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The world building in this story was marvelous. Ms. Meissner envisioned a land of the Fae that was as beautiful as it was dangerous. Learning more about it only made me yearn to dive even deeper into this world’s mythology, history, and setting. Honestly, this rivalled many of the adult fantasy novels I’ve read when it came to creative a place that was familiar enough to understand but also different enough from human society to make every revelation about how it all worked that much more captivating.

Not only was Abbie a well written and likeable protagonist, she behaved exactly like an eight-year-old should. Sometimes she forgot to follow the rules or tried to do things her own way instead of listening to the wiser folks around her. I appreciated the fact that she acted just like an ordinary kid, especially since her adventures were anything but ordinary.

Abbie had such a warm, loving relationship with her parents. Of course they loved one another, but they also genuinely liked each other as fellow human beings. This is something I don’t see nearly enough of in middle grade novels, so it was nice to find another example of a healthy and functioning family for young readers.

Some of my favorite scenes were the ones that explored changeling lore. They gave plenty of background information on it for readers who might not already be familiar with it, but then the narrator put their own spin on it to make it fit into this setting perfectly. I truly enjoyed reading about what changelings are like in this world and why humans fear them so much.

Fae Child was pure escapism in the best sense of that term. I heartily recommend it for anyone who wants to lose themselves into a magical time and place.

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Forever in a Moment by Charlotte O’Shay

November 30, 2020 By 6 Comments


Forever in a Moment by Charlotte O’Shay
Deerbourne Inn Book 8
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Voted BoM by LASR Readers 2013 copy

A stormy encounter…

Samantha DeMartino’s Christmas wedding is two weeks away when her fiancé calls the whole thing off. Word on the street: his cold feet are being heated by an old flame. With her well-ordered world in complete disarray, Sam’s friends convince her to go on her honeymoon—alone. A week at a charming Vermont inn away from the city and her demanding corporate career could be just what she needs to figure out her next steps.

Between his twenty-four seven work schedule on his family’s dairy farm and teaching tourists to ski, Jed Armstrong’s too busy to think about how lonely he is…until Sam sings her way into his life during a Christmas blizzard. Now he has to figure out a way to convince her to stay.

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Will her secret keep her from trying?

Oh my gosh I’m so late to the party! Apparently there are twenty-two books in the Deerbourne Inn series, written by all different authors. Apparently a reader doesn’t need to read them in order. I’ve never read a Charlotte O’Shay book but I think she did a fine job!

I’m the lucky reviewer to have read book eight, Forever in a Moment, and can I say “Wow!”. I’m so sad it’s over. It was the fastest one hundred and thirty eight pages I’ve ever read.

The hero, Jed, was “all that” and more. The book started off right away with him rescuing the heroine, Sam. I loved the quick start that just kept on flowing like the snow falling in the snow storms described in the story.

It wasn’t your typical busy city woman falling for a country farm boy with the conflict of will she stay in the country or will he follow her to the city because it wasn’t a typical farm setting. The setting was remarkable yet indescribable. You’ll need to read the book for yourself. In fact I’m curious to read some more books from the Deerbourne Inn series.

As far as the relationship between Sam and Jed, it was quite entertaining. She’s a proud successful Italian city woman and Jed is a well-loved small town citizen. The writing style contained humor, chemistry and honesty between the couple which made them relatable and lovable.

There was an epilogue which I always appreciate when I’m reading a romance. It’s like getting dessert after eating a delicious meal.

I don’t have any reservations about recommending this book at all. I’m excited to explore some of the other books in this series. I would encourage others to explore this book and series as well.

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The Forgiven Scoundrel by Laura A. Barnes

November 24, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Forgiven Scoundrel by Laura A. Barnes
(Fifth book in the Tricking the Scoundrels series)
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Historical, Romance
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Secrets have a way of coming to light…

She never allowed her heart to love another. He had never forgotten her. Will their secrets keep them apart? Or would their love overcome them?

Belle portrayed herself as two different women in London. To the lower class she was Rosie, a young widow who lost her husband too soon. A generous lady who befriended all, always helping those in need. To the peers of the realm, she was the notorious Madame Bellerose. Her establishment in Covent Garden was the most sought after to gain membership. Every gentleman attempted to bed the sultry Belle, but she favored no man with entry to her boudoir. She gave her soul away to one man years ago and there would be no other for her. Belle found contentment in the life she created to survive with her flourishing business and her new friendships. Until the man who stole her heart and abandoned her years ago returned. Phillip dominated her senses, making her crave what they once had. Can Belle forgive Phillip for abandoning her and risk her heart to loving him again?
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Lord Phillip Delamont had only one purpose for his return to London. And that was to find the woman he loved. To his surprise, his young son befriended the lady he desired. However, at every turn her friends would thwart his attempts to seek her attentions. His frustrations would only leave him wanting her more. A chance invitation for a game of cards leads Phillip into discovering Belle’s true identity. Once he realized the woman Belle had become his need to make her his again became his primary goal. Can Phillip convince Belle that they are meant to be together forever?

Secrets. As Phillip pursues Belle, they keep their secrets hidden from one another. Secrets that could help to heal their hearts. Will they let their past continue to haunt them? Or will they confess their true love?

When my son graduated high school, it was very bittersweet. That’s exactly how I feel right now. I absolutely loved this series. I read every book and I’m so sad that the series is over now. The Forgiven Scoundrel was the perfect ending to the Tricking the Scoundrels series.

The heroine, Belle, was a complex character that was pivotal in all the other books. I was really looking forward to reading her story because I always found her intriguing because of the mysterious aura surrounding her. I didn’t think I’d love Belle any more than I did but I was wrong. Her romance with the hero, Lord Phillip Delamont, was sublime.

Many secrets make for a really awesome plot. Relatable characters that I’ve befriended in previous books only enhance my positive feelings while reading this story. Combine a spicy romance between Belle and Phillip and I have a book glow.

In addition to the excellent writing style, unpredictable plot twists and consistent quality pace flow, I found The Forgiven Scoundrel to be an entertaining read that I didn’t want to put down.

I definitely recommend this book to be on a reader’s “must read” list for those who love stories with redemption, forgiveness and true love. All the books in this series can be read as standalones, but I suggest reading the entire series. With Christmas coming, the complete set of Tricking the Scoundrels series would make a wonderful gift.

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To Heal a Heart by Jana Richards

November 23, 2020 By 1 Comment


To Heal a Heart by Jana Richards
The Masonville Series
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press, Inc.
Genre: Contemporary, Romance
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

Garrett Saunders’ world changed two years ago on a road in Afghanistan. Back home, he feels like a stranger. As he struggles to find his place in the world, he meets a horse destined for the slaughterhouse and a woman bent on rescuing the strays of the world, including him.

Blair Greyson moves to Masonville to look after her ailing grandfather and give her rescue horses a home. Right away she butts heads with a surly former Marine. Despite a rocky start, they come to an agreement: Blair will board Garrett’s rescue horse and he’ll help with repairs around her farm.
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Garrett finds purpose working with Blair—and falls in love with her. But she’s hiding a secret. Can she forgive herself and accept Garrett’s love, or will she let guilt and regret continue to rule her life?

If I had to choose one word to summarize this story then I’d choose the word, heartwarming. This was an inspiring and uplifting book.

The hero, Garrett, and the heroine, Blair, are both tragically broken. One can only wonder how they could ever move forward and each let their past demons go. They both believed they didn’t deserve each other. I’m serious when I say this plot had the potential to be a head banger but it pleasantly wasn’t. There were other characters i.e.: family/friends that were all different kinds of messed up in their own way that the focus wasn’t entirely the leading characters repeating how they had no future he/she deserved better. There was involvement or intervention from both sides encouraging them to open their eyes and hearts; to grab the opportunity to learn from other people’s mistakes or successes. The title of the book was very appropriate for Clair and Garrett as they healed each other’s hearts.

Blair and Garrett’s love for each other was eloquently written. One could imagine and feel the struggle and couldn’t help but cheer them on. The chemistry was there between them. It took some time for them to surrender to it, which leads my sharing that the pace of the story was a bit slow for me. The first page was gripping but as the story progressed it was like riding an emotional roller-coaster.

This is book two in the Masonville series. I didn’t read the first one and didn’t feel like I needed to. Because of that, I’d say that To Heal a Heart can be read as a standalone. This story was three hundred and twenty nine pages. I think it has the making to be made into a Hallmark movie.

Blair’s grandfather is a stable character who had an impact on his family and his community. It was gut-wrenching that he didn’t get to see the ending as the reader did. To Heal a Heart was a dramatic contemporary romance that has the potential to touch many reader’s lives. For that reason I sincerely recommend this book.

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Within the Folds of a Swan’s Wing by Jennifer Walker

November 20, 2020 By 1 Comment


Within the Folds of a Swan’s Wing by Jennifer Walker
Publisher: Totally Entwined
Genre: Young Adult (14 – 18 y.o.), Romance, Contemporary
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

What if the one element that has always defined you as a geeky outcast has the potential to catapult you into being the next big thing?

A Black girl adopted into a White family, Jodie has always felt out of place, especially at her mainly middle-class, white high school. Used to being a ghost in the halls, she has always found solace alone in her room surrounded by a world of Stephen King novels, Oreo cookies, Dave Brubeck jazz riffs and origami. Forever classified as a geeky outcast, she finally finds two unlikely friends who share her interests and accept her as she is—Bethany, the visually-impaired new girl, who has autism, and Jared, the home-schooled, self-proclaimed nerdy frozen-yogurt clerk who she’s crushing on big-time.

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There is so much hope tucked into these pages.

Jodie was a well rounded and loveable protagonist who changed in so many exciting ways through the course of this novel. When I first met her, she was a withdrawn, socially isolated teen who often turned to overeating to help her deal with difficult emotions like loneliness or embarrassment. I appreciated the fact that her problems were so well written. They gave me compassion for her struggles and made me yearn to find out if she’d develop healthier coping mechanisms and if she’d find a way to make genuine connections with the people around her.

What made me adore it even more than I already did through Jodie alone was how beautifully the secondary characters were written as well. Bethany was such a sweet, gentle girl, and the friendship between these young women soon blossomed into something marvelous. Similar patterns were repeated with several other teens and adults in Jodie’s life. There were multiple times I paused from reading and wished these characters truly existed in our world. Not only did they genuinely feel real, they were also the sort of folks I’d happily become friends with because of how kind and welcoming they were to everyone.

This was one of those young adult books that could easily cross over to the adult section of any library. There were many themes in it that were just as relevant for readers decades older than the intended audience as it was for. Sometimes folks of all ages need to be reminded why inclusivity is important or how a series of small and seemingly inconsequential changes in one’s life can ultimately lead to transformation.

I’d heartily recommend Within the Folds of a Swan’s Wing to young adult and adult readers alike. This is a must-read in my opinion!

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Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark

November 16, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code by Laurie Wallmark
Volume 1 – People Who Shaped Our World
Publisher: Sterling Children’s Books
Genre: Children’s (0 – 6 y.o.), Non-Fiction, Historical
Rating: 5 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

Who was Grace Hopper? A software tester, workplace jester, cherished mentor, ace inventor, avid reader, naval leader—AND rule breaker, chance taker, and troublemaker. Acclaimed picture book author Laurie Wallmark (Ada Byron Lovelace and the Thinking Machine) once again tells the riveting story of a trailblazing woman. Grace Hopper coined the term “computer bug” and taught computers to “speak English.” Throughout her life, Hopper succeeded in doing what no one had ever done before. Delighting in difficult ideas and in defying expectations, the insatiably curious Hopper truly was “Amazing Grace” . . . and a role model for science- and math-minded girls and boys. With a wealth of witty quotes, and richly detailed illustrations, this book brings Hopper’s incredible accomplishments to life.

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Grace lived in an era when prejudice against women prevented many of them from achieving their goals. This book acknowledged that while also showing how this specific woman never stopped trying to push the limits of what society thought were acceptable subjects for her to study and projects for her to work on once she graduated and began putting her schooling to use. She simply refused to accept the artificial limitations placed on her due to her gender no matter what anyone said. I found that admirable and thought it was exactly the right way to approach this topic for young readers.

Not everything Grace tried to do was successful at first, of course. Failures happen to everyone eventually, and even more often for folks who are trying something completely new. Seeing how she reacted to those many setbacks only made me like her even more. Her attitude in those difficult moments showed the audience who she really was as a human being, and it also made her a great role model for readers of all ages.

Some of my favorite portions of this picture book were the ones that told funny stories about Grace’s life. She defied people’s expectations of her from a very early age, and that sometimes lead to her saying or doing things that nobody could have predicted. One of them involved clocks of all things, and the rest will be even more amusing if new readers don’t know a thing about them in advance. She had a wonderful personality that shone through at its brightest during these moments.

Anyone who enjoys using a computer or accessing the Internet should check out Grace Hopper: Queen of Computer Code to see how these things became possible.

Filed Under: Non-Fiction, Reviews, YA/Middle Grade/Children's Tagged With: , , , , ,

Magnar by Mary Morgan

November 9, 2020 By 20 Comments


Magnar by Mary Morgan
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical, Paranormal, Romance
Rated: 5 stars
Review by Dryas

Known as the Barbarian, Magnar MacAlpin is a fierce ruler for those under his command. As leader of the Wolves of Clan Sutherland, his loyalty and obedience lies with Scotland. However, the king’s last demand is not something Magnar will tolerate.

After Elspeth Gunn’s brother the Chieftain of Castle Steinn is murdered, she flees with her nephew, and finds safety amongst a band of men who are rumored to be part wolf. When the king forces her to wed a heathen Northman, she fears losing her heart and soul not only to the man, but the beast as well.

In order to restore peace to a shattered clan, Magnar and Elspeth travel a treacherous path that challenges their beliefs. When evil seeks to destroy ancient traditions, will Magnar be compelled to restrain his wolf or allow him free to protect those he loves?

This is a novel that drew me in from the first page. The characters, plot, and the culture with its beautiful scenery makes it hard to stop reading. Each character is so well fleshed out that they feel like a part of your family and I couldn’t help laughing, crying, and cheering them on.

The plot starts out with an idea that I have not seen before. This novel deals with the gods of Norway and Scotland: Oden, Freya, Jiroh, and Loki to name a few, along with druids and seers.

A long time past, there had been a huge war between Norway and Scotland and the people cried desperately to their gods for vengeance. The druids and seers prayed to the gods and the gods gave the ability for volunteers of man to be able to turn into wolves and their human forms to be stronger than before.

During the reign of King William of Scotland, the leader of the wolves, Magnar, finds out his mother has passed and has held a secret. He has a twin brother.  This is supposed to be impossible as the magic is supposed to allow only one child in the family to be able to change. Otherwise there would be fighting for dominance and one could be killed. This situation causes his heart to ache as he thought his brother should have stayed with him instead of being sent away and Magnar didn’t know what had happened to him. He had made up his mind that he would ask his brother to join the Southerland wolves. His brother’s story weaves in with Magnar’s along the way.

Then things get really interesting when we are brought to castle Steinn in Scotland where a Lady Elspeth, the sister of the Lord of the Castle and her nephew Erik were attacked by Bandits who killed the Lord. After escaping they were lucky enough to run into some of Magnars men who escorted them to King William. As Erik is now the Lord of Steinn castle, the King sends Magnar and his men to reclaim the castle. There is one catch, the bandit leader Halvard has declared that Elspeth is his wife and thus he is the legal lord. To solve the issue, the King orders Magnar and Elspeth to wed.

I love the character of Magnar. He is driven to protect those under his care and is extremely loyal especially to one man, King William, The Lion of Scotland. He has ties to two countries as most of his men do, both Scotland and Norway. He is a man who holds his emotions under control, and he is confused by how strong his feelings for Elspeth are. I enjoyed the way the author had him interact with the wolf, although the man is alpha he is in touch with what his wolf needs and makes sure that he gets it. It’s enjoyable watching him fighting his feelings and his lust of Elspeth. He is a man of honor as is shown by the vow he gave her, saying he would not take her in the marriage bed until she allows it. It’s also sweet watching him with Erik, taking him as a ward and showing Erik how to become a leader. It melted my heart.

Elspeth is another wonderfully developed character. She is a strong woman who takes everything that life throws at her with strength and forbearance. She follows the new religion of today and this causes some friction between her and Magnar as she feels uncomfortable about his religion. An example of her strength is how she protected Erik on their journey south. I enjoyed watching her fight her feelings for Magnar as they journey onwards towards Stienn to regain the castle. She even inspired loyalty in his men. Her stubbornness is legendary, not allowing anything keep her from completing any task.

Then there was the adorable Erik, who is only about 6 years-old and now holds the burden of learning to become a lord. It twisted my heart knowing that his childhood was lost to him forever, and increased my hatred for the barbarians who attacked the castle and killed his father. Watching him grow is impressive and Magnar’s men recognize a great lord waiting inside him. It’s also sweet watching Magnar take a great interest in his education and they develop a bond that is strong as iron.

Another great part of this story is the language the author uses. It’s just like hearing the old language yet it is still understandable. The scenery is beautifully described, with its mountains and wonderful forests with clear streams.

The love between these two people is sweet but hot at the same time. There are some wonderfully described love scenes. Loyalty runs throughout the whole story and keeps the wolves a tightly knit community who will give their lives for each other. The author does a wonderful job of capturing the culture of the time. I highly recommend this book not only for the romance, but for so many other reasons that are too long to list. Just make sure you have plenty of time before picking this up, as you won’t be able to put it down.

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