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Clan Mackenzie #1
Highlander Claimed
From Book 1:
Since her adoption by peasants of the Ogilvie Clan, Roses has been marked as an outsider. Her fair hair and golden complexion set her apart, as does a mysterious tattoo she keeps hidden at all costs. So when Laird Ogilvie corners her with an indecent proposal, Roses has no ties to stop her from fleeing. Outcast and alone, her escape across the Highlands is interrupted by Wilkie Mackenzie, the wild and handsome brother of nearby Clan Mackenzie's leader.
Wilkie is honor bound to marry into the family of a valuable ally. But when Roses sweeps him off his feet literally settling for an arranged match is no longer an option. Torn between duty and desire, Wilkie dedicates himself to Roses's protection, but Laird Ogilvie knows her secret and will stop at nothing to steal Roses back. Now, these star-crossed lovers find themselves in a fight to defend both their hearts and their lives.
Since her adoption by peasants of the Ogilvie Clan, Roses has been marked as an outsider. Her fair hair and golden complexion set her apart, as does a mysterious tattoo she keeps hidden at all costs. So when Laird Ogilvie corners her with an indecent proposal, Roses has no ties to stop her from fleeing. Outcast and alone, her escape across the Highlands is interrupted by Wilkie Mackenzie, the wild and handsome brother of nearby Clan Mackenzie's leader.
Wilkie is honor bound to marry into the family of a valuable ally. But when Roses sweeps him off his feet literally settling for an arranged match is no longer an option. Torn between duty and desire, Wilkie dedicates himself to Roses's protection, but Laird Ogilvie knows her secret and will stop at nothing to steal Roses back. Now, these star-crossed lovers find themselves in a fight to defend both their hearts and their lives.
384 pages, Paperback
Published March 1, 2013
27 people are currently reading
872 people want to read
About the author
Juliette Miller
14 books73 followersJuliette Miller is an incurable romantic and an acute sufferer of wanderlust. She began writing romance soon after she met the man of her dreams in a smoky bar on a Greek Island.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 85 reviews
May 25, 2017
4.5 Angel Stars
*Spoilers*
“Nay. I’m not an angel.” “You’re my angel,”
“If you hadn’t struck me, I wouldn’t have struck you, then I wouldn’t have removed your helmet and laid eyes on the most beautiful creature in this life, or any other. At that moment, our fates entwined, Roses. I know not why, but I know it to be true—I am bound to you forevermore. There is nothing to regret.”
So I came across The Clan Mackenzie Series like 6 months ago. I wanted to read them, but I didn't want to pay 5 dollars a book on a series that had so many mixed reviews with my GR friends. So I put it off. I found the first two in the series at a yard sale a few days ago, and thought why not it's only a dollar. Having just finished Highlander Claimed I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this book.
“If I can survive it, warrior, you can. Feel me here, with you. Feel my mouth on you. Taste my love for you. I’m here. Let me heal you.”
“I’ll never have enough of you,” he whispered. “Not in this lifetime. Not in a thousand lifetimes. I love you, Roses. I love you with a ferocity that threatens my very sanity.”
I loved the plot of this book. I found it exciting, action packed, and full of drama. Not the kind of catty drama that annoys me, but a heart pounding, gritty drama that kept me on edge wanting to know what will happen next. The heroine Roses (BTW I hated that name just sayin) was sweet, brave, but a little naive at times. The hero Wilkie was a heart melter. Wow did I love Wilkie. He wanted Roses and was damn well gonna have her and no one was getting in his way. He was strong, sexy, and protective. A tad jealous, but not to the point where you slap him silly. Wilkie was this big tough warrior, but he had these super sweet, playful, loving moments that just had me falling in love with him. There is this one part in the book where Wilkie is teaching Roses how to read and write. He is writing the story of how they met and reading it too her, and it was so damn cute. I was swooning all over the place.
“You’re supposed to be teaching me,” I teased him gently, but I was somewhat breathless from his sentences. “I’ve hardly learned anything.” He smiled. “Not true. You’ve learned to read ‘I.’” “I think I already knew that.” He turned to me, straddling my knees between his own, holding my face in his large hands. “You learned that I find this mouth the most irresistible, pink, delectable—” “I think I already knew that, as well.” His mouth was very close to mine. Quietly he said, “And you learned that I love you. Deeply. Madly. Insatiably. Did you know that already, too, Roses?”
“You are my angel. My sun. And soon, my wife. You’ve been stolen from me, threatened and hurt. I die a thousand deaths each time I think of it.”
This story is for sure a Insta-Love , so if that is not your thing you should skip this one. The sex in this book was very steamy. I do want to say there is a part in this book that some might have a hard time reading, when it comes to the MCs and OM/OW and it's I really liked Wilkie's brothers and sisters. Especially Kade. Kade's book is next and I can't wait to read it. I am so glad I found these at a yard sale. Great read for those who love Highlander romances. Below are a couple of my favorite quotes from this book:
“I will never give my consent to you,” I said. “Kill him and I’ll die along with him, but not before I take your life with my own. You will not win. I will be Wilkie Mackenzie’s wife, or no one’s.”
“and I would not have cast you away. You’re my angel, lass. That is what you are. ’Tis what you always were and always will be. I love you. To utter madness. Have I not proven that to you, in every way that I know how? Say it to me. Say ‘my warrior loves me to utter madness.’” I sniffled. “My warrior loves me.” “Nay, Roses. My warrior loves me to utter madness."
*Spoilers*
“Nay. I’m not an angel.” “You’re my angel,”
“If you hadn’t struck me, I wouldn’t have struck you, then I wouldn’t have removed your helmet and laid eyes on the most beautiful creature in this life, or any other. At that moment, our fates entwined, Roses. I know not why, but I know it to be true—I am bound to you forevermore. There is nothing to regret.”
So I came across The Clan Mackenzie Series like 6 months ago. I wanted to read them, but I didn't want to pay 5 dollars a book on a series that had so many mixed reviews with my GR friends. So I put it off. I found the first two in the series at a yard sale a few days ago, and thought why not it's only a dollar. Having just finished Highlander Claimed I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised at how much I loved this book.
“If I can survive it, warrior, you can. Feel me here, with you. Feel my mouth on you. Taste my love for you. I’m here. Let me heal you.”
“I’ll never have enough of you,” he whispered. “Not in this lifetime. Not in a thousand lifetimes. I love you, Roses. I love you with a ferocity that threatens my very sanity.”
I loved the plot of this book. I found it exciting, action packed, and full of drama. Not the kind of catty drama that annoys me, but a heart pounding, gritty drama that kept me on edge wanting to know what will happen next. The heroine Roses (BTW I hated that name just sayin) was sweet, brave, but a little naive at times. The hero Wilkie was a heart melter. Wow did I love Wilkie. He wanted Roses and was damn well gonna have her and no one was getting in his way. He was strong, sexy, and protective. A tad jealous, but not to the point where you slap him silly. Wilkie was this big tough warrior, but he had these super sweet, playful, loving moments that just had me falling in love with him. There is this one part in the book where Wilkie is teaching Roses how to read and write. He is writing the story of how they met and reading it too her, and it was so damn cute. I was swooning all over the place.
“You’re supposed to be teaching me,” I teased him gently, but I was somewhat breathless from his sentences. “I’ve hardly learned anything.” He smiled. “Not true. You’ve learned to read ‘I.’” “I think I already knew that.” He turned to me, straddling my knees between his own, holding my face in his large hands. “You learned that I find this mouth the most irresistible, pink, delectable—” “I think I already knew that, as well.” His mouth was very close to mine. Quietly he said, “And you learned that I love you. Deeply. Madly. Insatiably. Did you know that already, too, Roses?”
“You are my angel. My sun. And soon, my wife. You’ve been stolen from me, threatened and hurt. I die a thousand deaths each time I think of it.”
This story is for sure a Insta-Love , so if that is not your thing you should skip this one. The sex in this book was very steamy. I do want to say there is a part in this book that some might have a hard time reading, when it comes to the MCs and OM/OW and it's I really liked Wilkie's brothers and sisters. Especially Kade. Kade's book is next and I can't wait to read it. I am so glad I found these at a yard sale. Great read for those who love Highlander romances. Below are a couple of my favorite quotes from this book:
“I will never give my consent to you,” I said. “Kill him and I’ll die along with him, but not before I take your life with my own. You will not win. I will be Wilkie Mackenzie’s wife, or no one’s.”
“and I would not have cast you away. You’re my angel, lass. That is what you are. ’Tis what you always were and always will be. I love you. To utter madness. Have I not proven that to you, in every way that I know how? Say it to me. Say ‘my warrior loves me to utter madness.’” I sniffled. “My warrior loves me.” “Nay, Roses. My warrior loves me to utter madness."
October 14, 2017
I was in the mood for some Historical Romance, so I had this one brought to my attention by my reading buddy, Jessica!! And I thank you so much for bringing this series to me Jess, because I have fallen in love with the three Mackenzie brothers! Well, I will say that I love Wilkie so far! He is such a sweetheart, and when he sees a woman named "Roses" for the first time....he falls hard for her...believe me!!! I loved every moment of the time these two spent together!
Like most HR books though, Wilkie is supposed to be following his duty to his clan, and marrying someone else. He is so taken with Roses though, he will stop at nothing to make sure they will be together. She is a lowly kitchen maid, and not really good for him though, but Wilkie doesn't care...
This is the first book in the "Clan Mackenzie" series, and I am already halfway through the second!! I just can't seem to stop! There is something about these Mackenzie brothers that captivate me! If you are a reader who likes to dip into the HR books from time to time...then definitely put this one on your to read list! It is well worth taking a look at!!!
Like most HR books though, Wilkie is supposed to be following his duty to his clan, and marrying someone else. He is so taken with Roses though, he will stop at nothing to make sure they will be together. She is a lowly kitchen maid, and not really good for him though, but Wilkie doesn't care...
This is the first book in the "Clan Mackenzie" series, and I am already halfway through the second!! I just can't seem to stop! There is something about these Mackenzie brothers that captivate me! If you are a reader who likes to dip into the HR books from time to time...then definitely put this one on your to read list! It is well worth taking a look at!!!
March 20, 2016
5 Swoon Worthy Stars!
I cannot formulate words to express how much I loved this. The romance in this book blew me away. Some of the things that came out of Wilkie's mouth just made me smile so much my cheeks hurt. I had butterfly at some of his words of devotion to Roses, from the second he meets her he knows she is going to be his.
"You're the one. My sunlit angel. My Roses. Mine."
He was the perfect hero, extremely romantic, protective, and had a jealous streak. The heroine Roses was a bit of a doormat but I enjoyed how understanding and compassionate her character was, and I liked that she wasn't tstl like many other Highlander heroines I've read about.
""'Tis too much", he said.
"What's too much?"
"My love for you. I can't survive it.""
Can't wait to read the next book which will be on his brother Kade!
I cannot formulate words to express how much I loved this. The romance in this book blew me away. Some of the things that came out of Wilkie's mouth just made me smile so much my cheeks hurt. I had butterfly at some of his words of devotion to Roses, from the second he meets her he knows she is going to be his.
"You're the one. My sunlit angel. My Roses. Mine."
He was the perfect hero, extremely romantic, protective, and had a jealous streak. The heroine Roses was a bit of a doormat but I enjoyed how understanding and compassionate her character was, and I liked that she wasn't tstl like many other Highlander heroines I've read about.
""'Tis too much", he said.
"What's too much?"
"My love for you. I can't survive it.""
Can't wait to read the next book which will be on his brother Kade!
June 18, 2017
A truly romantic highlander tale.
My first thought upon beginning this book was,"First person narrative? Really? Not seen that before in my Hunky Highlander books!" But I have to say, I thought it worked brilliantly. I slightly favour 1st person perspectives in general as I find it easier to connect to the heroine—whose character I invariably like to drop myself into. Unless, you know, she's an idiot. Then I remove myself as far from her as possible and call her names—but I've become so used to third person in romances that it struck me as a bold choice. I think it worked really well here, not only in my connection to the heroine, but in making the hero seem more of a mystery to us as readers—What is he thinking? Why is he acting that way?—We have no clue; much like in real life! Men are from Mars and women are from Venus and all that. So, writing style-wise, this was a hit for me, and I didn't find it limiting at all.
As to the characters, both hero and heroine, Wilkie and Roses, were great. Roses is a blonde-haired, green-eyed exotic beauty with a secret. Wilkie is a tall, dark and handsome warrior, a hit with the ladies, and a thoroughly nice guy. Both were pretty flawless physical specimens, it has to be said. Although you got the sense that Roses didn't really realise her own appeal after so many years trying to hide herself away at her old clan. And for Wilkie, while it can't have escaped his notice that he turns female heads everywhere he goes, he's far from arrogant. In fact, it's him that's struck dumb initially by Roses's beauty. It was a fantastic first meet scene and made me see perhaps why the book is called 'Highlander Claimed' rather than, say, 'Claimed by the Highlander.' Because it's Wilkie that's been caught hook, line and sinker. He's finally met his match, and he is never letting her go!
The story, while enjoyable, wasn't anything ground-breaking and in fact, I'd read a similar story in another highlander book just this year that had used two of the same plot lines. But, to be honest, I found the romance so engaging I didn't really mind how obvious the big ta-da! moment was. Sure, the dialogue got a bit flowery at times, and Roses could be a bit too biddable and simpering on occasion, but other than that, I had a fantastic time with the book and am excited about the prospect of more from this author. And did I mention the sex scenes? H. O. T!
I shall be adding Juliette Miller to my list of Highlander romance authors I recommend. And I'm greatly looking forward to brother number two—Kade's book, which is called Highlander Taken and releases on 1st May, 2013.
4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
My first thought upon beginning this book was,"First person narrative? Really? Not seen that before in my Hunky Highlander books!" But I have to say, I thought it worked brilliantly. I slightly favour 1st person perspectives in general as I find it easier to connect to the heroine—whose character I invariably like to drop myself into. Unless, you know, she's an idiot. Then I remove myself as far from her as possible and call her names—but I've become so used to third person in romances that it struck me as a bold choice. I think it worked really well here, not only in my connection to the heroine, but in making the hero seem more of a mystery to us as readers—What is he thinking? Why is he acting that way?—We have no clue; much like in real life! Men are from Mars and women are from Venus and all that. So, writing style-wise, this was a hit for me, and I didn't find it limiting at all.
As to the characters, both hero and heroine, Wilkie and Roses, were great. Roses is a blonde-haired, green-eyed exotic beauty with a secret. Wilkie is a tall, dark and handsome warrior, a hit with the ladies, and a thoroughly nice guy. Both were pretty flawless physical specimens, it has to be said. Although you got the sense that Roses didn't really realise her own appeal after so many years trying to hide herself away at her old clan. And for Wilkie, while it can't have escaped his notice that he turns female heads everywhere he goes, he's far from arrogant. In fact, it's him that's struck dumb initially by Roses's beauty. It was a fantastic first meet scene and made me see perhaps why the book is called 'Highlander Claimed' rather than, say, 'Claimed by the Highlander.' Because it's Wilkie that's been caught hook, line and sinker. He's finally met his match, and he is never letting her go!
The story, while enjoyable, wasn't anything ground-breaking and in fact, I'd read a similar story in another highlander book just this year that had used two of the same plot lines. But, to be honest, I found the romance so engaging I didn't really mind how obvious the big ta-da! moment was. Sure, the dialogue got a bit flowery at times, and Roses could be a bit too biddable and simpering on occasion, but other than that, I had a fantastic time with the book and am excited about the prospect of more from this author. And did I mention the sex scenes? H. O. T!
I shall be adding Juliette Miller to my list of Highlander romance authors I recommend. And I'm greatly looking forward to brother number two—Kade's book, which is called Highlander Taken and releases on 1st May, 2013.
4 Stars ★★★★
ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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January 3, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're are mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
Let me start by telling you that Highlander Claimed was awesome. I’m the newest fan of Juliette Miller, not only because of the sexy characters she created but also because of her extraordinarily beautiful writing. It’s just not the prose, but the description of Highlands and the way she drew out the feelings of the characters, despite this book being a first person narrative from the heroine, Roses. I had no doubt about Wilkie’s love for her. His no-questions-asked obsession and devotion for Roses was so palpable, poor Roses had no chance of denying him a thing (think of me grinning like a lunatic here :D). Wilkie was not a tortured, brooding hero and yet, WOW! The intensity of his feelings for Roses just consumed the whole book.
But that’s just the way I saw the book and glad to say that it worked for me because I LOVED it!!
Roses is an orphaned girl in the Ogilvie clan who never really knew what security is in her life. Her parents were her adoptive one, and her backstory before that is pretty vague. It’s said that she was found by them as a baby and the childless couple took her in, named her Roses (so uncommon and yet, a lovely name!) and loved her for as long as they lived. Roses’s life didn’t stay the same after that. The vile Ogilvie laird had his lecherous eyes on her ever since she was growing up (Ogilvie; I see the words ogre and vile here, not sure why but the laird was one hell of a skanky guy). He has several mistresses. Ogilvie doesn’t care about them much but his own pleasures. He even forced Roses’s adoptive mother to become his mistress after her father died. Roses knew what her fate would be, and so, she always kept her body in ragged boys’ clothes. She was living the life of a perpetual maid, and also, an apprentice to the clan healer. Yet, one day, she’s attacked by Ogilvie in his room when he found her alone. Roses somehow saves herself injuring Ogilvie, but not before he saw the tattoo on her back. She has always covered this tattoo, ever since some old seer woman told her parents that it’ll cause her trouble; that maybe even cause her to burn in stakes. Roses is scared of the revelation, but the vile Ogilvie sees something in it, even in his injured state. She takes the chance of his temporary inattention and runs.
Roses runs away because she knew what her fate would be otherwise. She hated to leave the healer woman, Ismay, who has been her closest friend among a clan where she has never felt at home; not once since her adoptive parents died. She contemplates a few places to go since she doesn’t really know anyone in that sense this whole wide world. Highlands can be a terrible place if you’re not well prepared and don’t know your way around, and so, Roses knows she has less choices left. Even when Ogilvie’s soldiers come looking for her, she is tracked down by one who was fortunately her friend too. Ritchie let’s her go. Two brothers, Ronan and Ritchie have never been fond of the laird and they tried their best to save Roses by teaching her knife and some basic sword skills. After the men left, Roses is on her own. For sometimes she tries to remember the discussion she’s heard from the laird and his soldiers. She knows Ogilvie is siding with the Campbells who are a foe to the current king Alexander. She also knows that the king is looking for his long lost and only child, whom he fathered with a mistress, to bequeath some really big fortune and lands. Roses only cares to find a clan that would take her in, and upon thinking (and as she fights with cold, exhaustion and hunger), she decides that Mackenzie clan, who is the closest to her at the moment, will have to do. At least for some stolen food, whatever it is. And so Roses sets off in that direction.
On her way, she ruminates about the information she’s heard of the Mackenzie brothers; Knox, the gruff laird, Kade, the youngest who is always armed to teeth. She also remembers Wilkie, the middle brother who is very popular with the women. Wilkie is said to be very beautiful and charming. Not that Roses cares, never really knowing the man... Hmm... Roses meanwhile, finds a cave to hide her meager belongings and to make a ladder. And when she finally climbs the walls of the Mackenzies at night, Roses finds a pear orchard full of pears. She takes whatever she can and then... well then, she comes across this lake while wondering and sees this naked man coming out of the water... Naked and ‘hellooo beautiful’ man to be exact! Roses is momentarily distracted by his god like beauty and forgets the fact that she’s actually thieving here. When she is back to her senses, Roses runs... but the man, a warrior she knows by now, is somehow clothed already and gives a chase after her. He chases her down to the cave but then the little the skirmish they have leaves them both injured. The man finally asks Roses to reveal herself, which she won’t. He then takes off her helmet forcefully and et voila!, loses his own senses by Roses’s beautiful sun-kissed golden hair and pale green eyes.
Oh, I knew Wilkie was a goner, but I still didn’t know how deep in sh*t he was. He just saw a vision of an angel, and he starts calling the girl Angel as well. It was apparent that both were more than taken with each-other. Roses can’t take her eyes off Wilkie’s beautiful physique, dark, braided hair and clear blue eyes. Then they both realize the depth of their injuries, especially Wilkie’s. He’s pretty badly hurt, and being a very efficient healer, Roses gets to work. She’s sad to see the extent of the injury her sword has caused to this man. In this state, Wilkie and Roses kiss, among other things. :p Anyway, the morning comes soon enough and Roses is resolved to inform his brothers about his conditions. She only hopes they don’t kill her later. At the Mackenzies, she finds that the people are getting ready to look for Wilkie. Upon Roses’s inquiry, she’s taken to the laird, Knox. Knox is a bit critical and brusque. He doesn’t like scandals, avoids them at all cost. He’s practical and so on. Knox hears Roses but doesn’t take any action on her. He and Kade, who is indeed always armed to teeth, take the men and asks Roses to show them the place. Inside the cave, amidst his feverish words, Wilkie tells them in so many words that he doesn’t want to let Roses go. Kade and Knox indulge in his feverish whims (as they took Roses to be one) and asks Roses to accompany them. Apparently, only her presence can make Wilkie calm, so there was no way they were going to let her go… at least for now.
At the Mackenzie keep, Roses meets Wilkie’s two sisters; eldest and poised, Ailie and more vivacious, Christie, the youngest. They welcome her open-hearted, more so when they figure out Roses’s importance with Wilkie’s fevered demands to keep her with him always. Knox wouldn’t listen at first, but later it was decided it’s best for Wilkie’s to keep Roses close by. Gradually Wilkie heals. Effie, the healer woman is very impressed with Roses’s healing work. It’s very apparent that Wilkie is a goner in reality, and not just by the fever of his infection. He deems Roses as his ‘angel who saved him from the dark and brought to the light.’ Roses, who is rather an ingénue in the matter of love and sex, can’t help fall for Wilkie a little every day. She knows nothing good would come from this, but for the first time in her life, she is this close to a human being in real sense. Wilkie’s presence gives her comfort. I could see them connecting, and the way Wilkie was with his words without being a sly charmer, I could also see Roses never recovering from him.
Anyway, as he heals, the talks of Wilkie marrying one of the Morrison daughters come to light. Roses unfortunately eavesdrops and hears Knox, Kade and him talking about it. Wilkie wouldn’t marry any of them, even though from their discussion it was implied that Wilkie might’ve slept with one of the daughters who had set her eyes on him. It’s her who is pushing the suit with her father to get Wilkie as her husband. Yah, well, I didn’t like knowing that Wilkie is callous enough now to turn on the girl, just because she wasn’t a virgin to begin with (according to him), but I let it pass. He was more than enamored of Roses and had plans of his own. Of course, Knox still thought it’s a passing fancy and Wilkie will marry... He has to marry, for their clans will unite for King Alexander, among other things.
Roses is clear enough about her place here, but she can’t help dreaming of being Wilkie’s wife. Who can blame her? She is a very innocent girl and even the tough life she led couldn’t really corrupt her. It was a blessing on its own. I liked Roses immensely. Yes, maybe once or twice I thought she’s being too forgiving or nice for my liking or too giving in that sense, but she was a good heroine. I already said I totally adored Wilkie and his obsessions over Roses. Every time he’d call ‘My Roses’ be it a normal conversation or making love to her, my knees would literally give in… WOW! It was gooood!! Anyway, it’s also confirmed that the Morrisons will visit in a few weeks to have the discussion of this marriage and I knew there’d be trouble since the girl who’d be inevitably spurned by Wilkie later, would be among the bunch. At this point, the story felt a little dragging since much wasn’t happening. I would’ve loved to read a little of Wilkie’s POV too, but that’s not a big complain. The guy was verbal enough to tell Roses how much he wants her and is crazy about her. :p So, we find Roses getting to know the Mackenzie lands, having a home here now. After Knox learning of Ogilvie’s foul attempts on her, she’s here to stay. They now know that Ogilvie will do everything to have Roses back. Roses dresses well with Ailie’s help, who herself is a dressmaker, and enchants Wilkie even more. They kiss and fondle, but don’t make love in that sense. Roses wants to have sex, and this is something I loved about her. She never really denied what she wanted and she always made sure that Wilkie knew how much she wants him. Her yearning for Wilkie was completely unconditional.
Once, as Roses and the sisters have a tour outside, they’re attacked by the Ogilvie soldiers who were lying in wait for her. It was a clumsy trick, and yet, Wilkie is enraged. He becomes Roses’s savior when the sisters ran to call for help. He makes sure that the security is tighter. Roses feels ashamed that the Mackenzies are now in trouble for her, but Wilkie assures her that it’s no trouble at all. She’s his, and she’s staying with him, end of the issue. Roses can only dream but not yet sure, with the Morrisons’ arriving anytime now. And when they do, things get a little muddy. We meet more new characters from the Morrison clan; the Laird’s daughters, especially the beautiful, yet reclusive Stella. The oldest is supposed to be going to the convent soon. So if Wilkie isn’t marrying Maisie, the third sister who’s pressing her suit, it’d be Stella who’d have to be married to him. But it doesn’t look like Stella is interested in this match, at all. But no one cares about her choice of course. We also meet the Munros. It seems like Ailie has a soft spot for the red-haired, gruff laird of the Munros. The feasting and celebration begin for this. Roses isn’t really enjoying this since she thinks she has to go away soon. Also, when, from Wilkie’s attentions to Roses, Maisie got the idea of how his interest has shifted for the good, Roses had to suffer through murderous glares from her. When I read about the Morrisons’ visit, I knew some trouble would be coming from Maisie, and she definitely tried my patience. I couldn’t entirely blame Maisie, yet I couldn’t stand her petty actions later when she tries too much to gain Wilkie’s attentions by touching him too much, showing that off as well, and in one scene, even going as far as to humiliate Roses by calling her a whore and a kitchen servant. Roses answers back to her, and I wanted to shake her when she’s ashamed later on (because Maisie deserved it). However, it was real fun to watch Wilkie’s jealousy when a man even so much as glanced at Roses in a different way. His possessiveness over Roses was heart-melting.
But still, Roses was not sure about her fate. Can Wilkie marry her, as he has been promising her for a time now? What about that tattoo she has? What if it’s the mark of a witch and he’s disgusted by it? Roses can’t quite imagine what’ll happen afterwards. In her agitated state, Roses this time presses Wilkie to make love to her. Wilkie wants to wait for their wedding, even if it’s killing him to be so near her and not make her his. This time, Roses’s begging and pouting gets to him and he’s like ‘does my Roses want me to prove my love for her? Does she want this...?’... ummm, and I was like OMG-HELP-ME-SOMEONE. Wilkie, damn the vain jerk (this is me being affectionate to him, *heehee*), I loved his words to Roses. Guess I already mentioned it. He finally gives in. The few love scenes this story had were super sensual without being explicit in that sense. Just so good, and got me really well. They were beautifully written and honestly, I craved for more of those later on.
Yet, the next day after their lovemaking, trouble begins. Roses decides to run away after she hears Knox being disappointed in Wilkie, and thinking he can’t really marry her. Knox was still adamant about Stella’s match with Wilkie and when Wilkie said he wanted to marry Roses and no one else, things got a little out of hand. Knox lost his wife a few years ago in childbirth, so I wasn’t sure why he wasn’t marrying one of the girls and pressing Wilkie so. It made me quite mad at him! I didn’t think Kade would step in, but he does in the end knowing that this would help his brother and the woman he loves. But Roses weren’t aware of the final solution. Alone, she makes her decision. She flew to the cave where she was with Wilkie on that long ago night and is captured by Ogilvie’s men. Roses’s actions can be called foolish but even I could see that she was scared and confused. Don’t think Wilkie was far behind though. When he finds her gone soon afterwards, Wilkie realizes what happened. He even tracks her down with Kade’s help, only to realize that she’s in grave danger. After a bloody skirmish near the cave, Wilkie sends Kade to get help. Afterwards, he’s also captured by the Ogilvie men and taken to Roses’s old clan. The story fairly picks up from here, and the twists were very good. There are some bloody moments, and some good revelations ahead. I wasn’t very surprised by Roses’s real identity but I was very happy for her nonetheless. And Wilkie was... just Wilkie ‘till the end. When the story ended, it was a real good feeling I tell you!
Now, I can hardly wait to find out how Kade wins sad and withdrawn Stella’s heart in Highlander Taken. There were some rumors about why she’s this way, which only whetted my appetite. I’m also thinking about Knox and who he’d be paired with... Would that be the sister who’s going to the convent because she’s not good-looking enough to catch a husband? Hmm... meanwhile 4.25 stars for Highlander Claimed!
This ARC was provided to me by Harlequin/HQN via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
Let me start by telling you that Highlander Claimed was awesome. I’m the newest fan of Juliette Miller, not only because of the sexy characters she created but also because of her extraordinarily beautiful writing. It’s just not the prose, but the description of Highlands and the way she drew out the feelings of the characters, despite this book being a first person narrative from the heroine, Roses. I had no doubt about Wilkie’s love for her. His no-questions-asked obsession and devotion for Roses was so palpable, poor Roses had no chance of denying him a thing (think of me grinning like a lunatic here :D). Wilkie was not a tortured, brooding hero and yet, WOW! The intensity of his feelings for Roses just consumed the whole book.
But that’s just the way I saw the book and glad to say that it worked for me because I LOVED it!!
Roses is an orphaned girl in the Ogilvie clan who never really knew what security is in her life. Her parents were her adoptive one, and her backstory before that is pretty vague. It’s said that she was found by them as a baby and the childless couple took her in, named her Roses (so uncommon and yet, a lovely name!) and loved her for as long as they lived. Roses’s life didn’t stay the same after that. The vile Ogilvie laird had his lecherous eyes on her ever since she was growing up (Ogilvie; I see the words ogre and vile here, not sure why but the laird was one hell of a skanky guy). He has several mistresses. Ogilvie doesn’t care about them much but his own pleasures. He even forced Roses’s adoptive mother to become his mistress after her father died. Roses knew what her fate would be, and so, she always kept her body in ragged boys’ clothes. She was living the life of a perpetual maid, and also, an apprentice to the clan healer. Yet, one day, she’s attacked by Ogilvie in his room when he found her alone. Roses somehow saves herself injuring Ogilvie, but not before he saw the tattoo on her back. She has always covered this tattoo, ever since some old seer woman told her parents that it’ll cause her trouble; that maybe even cause her to burn in stakes. Roses is scared of the revelation, but the vile Ogilvie sees something in it, even in his injured state. She takes the chance of his temporary inattention and runs.
Roses runs away because she knew what her fate would be otherwise. She hated to leave the healer woman, Ismay, who has been her closest friend among a clan where she has never felt at home; not once since her adoptive parents died. She contemplates a few places to go since she doesn’t really know anyone in that sense this whole wide world. Highlands can be a terrible place if you’re not well prepared and don’t know your way around, and so, Roses knows she has less choices left. Even when Ogilvie’s soldiers come looking for her, she is tracked down by one who was fortunately her friend too. Ritchie let’s her go. Two brothers, Ronan and Ritchie have never been fond of the laird and they tried their best to save Roses by teaching her knife and some basic sword skills. After the men left, Roses is on her own. For sometimes she tries to remember the discussion she’s heard from the laird and his soldiers. She knows Ogilvie is siding with the Campbells who are a foe to the current king Alexander. She also knows that the king is looking for his long lost and only child, whom he fathered with a mistress, to bequeath some really big fortune and lands. Roses only cares to find a clan that would take her in, and upon thinking (and as she fights with cold, exhaustion and hunger), she decides that Mackenzie clan, who is the closest to her at the moment, will have to do. At least for some stolen food, whatever it is. And so Roses sets off in that direction.
On her way, she ruminates about the information she’s heard of the Mackenzie brothers; Knox, the gruff laird, Kade, the youngest who is always armed to teeth. She also remembers Wilkie, the middle brother who is very popular with the women. Wilkie is said to be very beautiful and charming. Not that Roses cares, never really knowing the man... Hmm... Roses meanwhile, finds a cave to hide her meager belongings and to make a ladder. And when she finally climbs the walls of the Mackenzies at night, Roses finds a pear orchard full of pears. She takes whatever she can and then... well then, she comes across this lake while wondering and sees this naked man coming out of the water... Naked and ‘hellooo beautiful’ man to be exact! Roses is momentarily distracted by his god like beauty and forgets the fact that she’s actually thieving here. When she is back to her senses, Roses runs... but the man, a warrior she knows by now, is somehow clothed already and gives a chase after her. He chases her down to the cave but then the little the skirmish they have leaves them both injured. The man finally asks Roses to reveal herself, which she won’t. He then takes off her helmet forcefully and et voila!, loses his own senses by Roses’s beautiful sun-kissed golden hair and pale green eyes.
Oh, I knew Wilkie was a goner, but I still didn’t know how deep in sh*t he was. He just saw a vision of an angel, and he starts calling the girl Angel as well. It was apparent that both were more than taken with each-other. Roses can’t take her eyes off Wilkie’s beautiful physique, dark, braided hair and clear blue eyes. Then they both realize the depth of their injuries, especially Wilkie’s. He’s pretty badly hurt, and being a very efficient healer, Roses gets to work. She’s sad to see the extent of the injury her sword has caused to this man. In this state, Wilkie and Roses kiss, among other things. :p Anyway, the morning comes soon enough and Roses is resolved to inform his brothers about his conditions. She only hopes they don’t kill her later. At the Mackenzies, she finds that the people are getting ready to look for Wilkie. Upon Roses’s inquiry, she’s taken to the laird, Knox. Knox is a bit critical and brusque. He doesn’t like scandals, avoids them at all cost. He’s practical and so on. Knox hears Roses but doesn’t take any action on her. He and Kade, who is indeed always armed to teeth, take the men and asks Roses to show them the place. Inside the cave, amidst his feverish words, Wilkie tells them in so many words that he doesn’t want to let Roses go. Kade and Knox indulge in his feverish whims (as they took Roses to be one) and asks Roses to accompany them. Apparently, only her presence can make Wilkie calm, so there was no way they were going to let her go… at least for now.
At the Mackenzie keep, Roses meets Wilkie’s two sisters; eldest and poised, Ailie and more vivacious, Christie, the youngest. They welcome her open-hearted, more so when they figure out Roses’s importance with Wilkie’s fevered demands to keep her with him always. Knox wouldn’t listen at first, but later it was decided it’s best for Wilkie’s to keep Roses close by. Gradually Wilkie heals. Effie, the healer woman is very impressed with Roses’s healing work. It’s very apparent that Wilkie is a goner in reality, and not just by the fever of his infection. He deems Roses as his ‘angel who saved him from the dark and brought to the light.’ Roses, who is rather an ingénue in the matter of love and sex, can’t help fall for Wilkie a little every day. She knows nothing good would come from this, but for the first time in her life, she is this close to a human being in real sense. Wilkie’s presence gives her comfort. I could see them connecting, and the way Wilkie was with his words without being a sly charmer, I could also see Roses never recovering from him.
Anyway, as he heals, the talks of Wilkie marrying one of the Morrison daughters come to light. Roses unfortunately eavesdrops and hears Knox, Kade and him talking about it. Wilkie wouldn’t marry any of them, even though from their discussion it was implied that Wilkie might’ve slept with one of the daughters who had set her eyes on him. It’s her who is pushing the suit with her father to get Wilkie as her husband. Yah, well, I didn’t like knowing that Wilkie is callous enough now to turn on the girl, just because she wasn’t a virgin to begin with (according to him), but I let it pass. He was more than enamored of Roses and had plans of his own. Of course, Knox still thought it’s a passing fancy and Wilkie will marry... He has to marry, for their clans will unite for King Alexander, among other things.
Roses is clear enough about her place here, but she can’t help dreaming of being Wilkie’s wife. Who can blame her? She is a very innocent girl and even the tough life she led couldn’t really corrupt her. It was a blessing on its own. I liked Roses immensely. Yes, maybe once or twice I thought she’s being too forgiving or nice for my liking or too giving in that sense, but she was a good heroine. I already said I totally adored Wilkie and his obsessions over Roses. Every time he’d call ‘My Roses’ be it a normal conversation or making love to her, my knees would literally give in… WOW! It was gooood!! Anyway, it’s also confirmed that the Morrisons will visit in a few weeks to have the discussion of this marriage and I knew there’d be trouble since the girl who’d be inevitably spurned by Wilkie later, would be among the bunch. At this point, the story felt a little dragging since much wasn’t happening. I would’ve loved to read a little of Wilkie’s POV too, but that’s not a big complain. The guy was verbal enough to tell Roses how much he wants her and is crazy about her. :p So, we find Roses getting to know the Mackenzie lands, having a home here now. After Knox learning of Ogilvie’s foul attempts on her, she’s here to stay. They now know that Ogilvie will do everything to have Roses back. Roses dresses well with Ailie’s help, who herself is a dressmaker, and enchants Wilkie even more. They kiss and fondle, but don’t make love in that sense. Roses wants to have sex, and this is something I loved about her. She never really denied what she wanted and she always made sure that Wilkie knew how much she wants him. Her yearning for Wilkie was completely unconditional.
Once, as Roses and the sisters have a tour outside, they’re attacked by the Ogilvie soldiers who were lying in wait for her. It was a clumsy trick, and yet, Wilkie is enraged. He becomes Roses’s savior when the sisters ran to call for help. He makes sure that the security is tighter. Roses feels ashamed that the Mackenzies are now in trouble for her, but Wilkie assures her that it’s no trouble at all. She’s his, and she’s staying with him, end of the issue. Roses can only dream but not yet sure, with the Morrisons’ arriving anytime now. And when they do, things get a little muddy. We meet more new characters from the Morrison clan; the Laird’s daughters, especially the beautiful, yet reclusive Stella. The oldest is supposed to be going to the convent soon. So if Wilkie isn’t marrying Maisie, the third sister who’s pressing her suit, it’d be Stella who’d have to be married to him. But it doesn’t look like Stella is interested in this match, at all. But no one cares about her choice of course. We also meet the Munros. It seems like Ailie has a soft spot for the red-haired, gruff laird of the Munros. The feasting and celebration begin for this. Roses isn’t really enjoying this since she thinks she has to go away soon. Also, when, from Wilkie’s attentions to Roses, Maisie got the idea of how his interest has shifted for the good, Roses had to suffer through murderous glares from her. When I read about the Morrisons’ visit, I knew some trouble would be coming from Maisie, and she definitely tried my patience. I couldn’t entirely blame Maisie, yet I couldn’t stand her petty actions later when she tries too much to gain Wilkie’s attentions by touching him too much, showing that off as well, and in one scene, even going as far as to humiliate Roses by calling her a whore and a kitchen servant. Roses answers back to her, and I wanted to shake her when she’s ashamed later on (because Maisie deserved it). However, it was real fun to watch Wilkie’s jealousy when a man even so much as glanced at Roses in a different way. His possessiveness over Roses was heart-melting.
But still, Roses was not sure about her fate. Can Wilkie marry her, as he has been promising her for a time now? What about that tattoo she has? What if it’s the mark of a witch and he’s disgusted by it? Roses can’t quite imagine what’ll happen afterwards. In her agitated state, Roses this time presses Wilkie to make love to her. Wilkie wants to wait for their wedding, even if it’s killing him to be so near her and not make her his. This time, Roses’s begging and pouting gets to him and he’s like ‘does my Roses want me to prove my love for her? Does she want this...?’... ummm, and I was like OMG-HELP-ME-SOMEONE. Wilkie, damn the vain jerk (this is me being affectionate to him, *heehee*), I loved his words to Roses. Guess I already mentioned it. He finally gives in. The few love scenes this story had were super sensual without being explicit in that sense. Just so good, and got me really well. They were beautifully written and honestly, I craved for more of those later on.
Yet, the next day after their lovemaking, trouble begins. Roses decides to run away after she hears Knox being disappointed in Wilkie, and thinking he can’t really marry her. Knox was still adamant about Stella’s match with Wilkie and when Wilkie said he wanted to marry Roses and no one else, things got a little out of hand. Knox lost his wife a few years ago in childbirth, so I wasn’t sure why he wasn’t marrying one of the girls and pressing Wilkie so. It made me quite mad at him! I didn’t think Kade would step in, but he does in the end knowing that this would help his brother and the woman he loves. But Roses weren’t aware of the final solution. Alone, she makes her decision. She flew to the cave where she was with Wilkie on that long ago night and is captured by Ogilvie’s men. Roses’s actions can be called foolish but even I could see that she was scared and confused. Don’t think Wilkie was far behind though. When he finds her gone soon afterwards, Wilkie realizes what happened. He even tracks her down with Kade’s help, only to realize that she’s in grave danger. After a bloody skirmish near the cave, Wilkie sends Kade to get help. Afterwards, he’s also captured by the Ogilvie men and taken to Roses’s old clan. The story fairly picks up from here, and the twists were very good. There are some bloody moments, and some good revelations ahead. I wasn’t very surprised by Roses’s real identity but I was very happy for her nonetheless. And Wilkie was... just Wilkie ‘till the end. When the story ended, it was a real good feeling I tell you!
Now, I can hardly wait to find out how Kade wins sad and withdrawn Stella’s heart in Highlander Taken. There were some rumors about why she’s this way, which only whetted my appetite. I’m also thinking about Knox and who he’d be paired with... Would that be the sister who’s going to the convent because she’s not good-looking enough to catch a husband? Hmm... meanwhile 4.25 stars for Highlander Claimed!
This ARC was provided to me by Harlequin/HQN via netgalley which didn’t influence my review and rating in any way.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 26, 2012
This romance caught me off guard. Not only is the story told only from the point of view of the heroine, but it's also written in first person narrative. I got used it, but I'm glad most historical romances aren't written this way. I like having the viewpoint of the hero, too.
Unfortunately I had some problems with the characters. I started out liking Roses. She doesn't let her laird take advantage of her and is able to defend herself and escape. But once she's with the hero, she turns into a... well I don't want to say a complete sop, because she doesn't completely lose her bravery, but she's very sopish in her interactions with Wilkie. There's one paragraph in particular that had me flabbergasted, where she goes on and on about how sorry she is for not heeding his commands. And she didn't even do anything awful! She was just expressing her need of him and confusion as to what he wanted of her. She seems to lose all willpower when it comes to Wilkie.
And Wilkie is not much better. From the first moment he meets Roses, he is obsessed - insanely, over-the-top obsessed. We don't get his viewpoint, but we know he is obsessed because he tells her all the time - he needs her, she's so beautiful, he's driven daft with longing for her. Their conversations seemed to consist of how much they need and want each other. He also acts extremely possessive and jealous of any interaction she has with other guys. Normally, I don't mind the heroes acting possessive or even a bit obsessed, but Wilkie's obsession just seemed excessive.
As for the story - well, when it wasn't centered around Roses and Wilkie's need for each other, there was the mystery of who Roses really is. She doesn't know who her birth parents are and she's always had a strange tattoo on her back. I think most readers are going to figure out who her parents are pretty quickly, like I did. Also the laird she fought against in the beginning very much wants her back. Wilkie and his clan must figure out a way to keep her safe from their neighboring laird.
The story was not badly written and some of the first person description from Roses was beautiful, but the characters were too much of a disappointment.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
Unfortunately I had some problems with the characters. I started out liking Roses. She doesn't let her laird take advantage of her and is able to defend herself and escape. But once she's with the hero, she turns into a... well I don't want to say a complete sop, because she doesn't completely lose her bravery, but she's very sopish in her interactions with Wilkie. There's one paragraph in particular that had me flabbergasted, where she goes on and on about how sorry she is for not heeding his commands. And she didn't even do anything awful! She was just expressing her need of him and confusion as to what he wanted of her. She seems to lose all willpower when it comes to Wilkie.
And Wilkie is not much better. From the first moment he meets Roses, he is obsessed - insanely, over-the-top obsessed. We don't get his viewpoint, but we know he is obsessed because he tells her all the time - he needs her, she's so beautiful, he's driven daft with longing for her. Their conversations seemed to consist of how much they need and want each other. He also acts extremely possessive and jealous of any interaction she has with other guys. Normally, I don't mind the heroes acting possessive or even a bit obsessed, but Wilkie's obsession just seemed excessive.
As for the story - well, when it wasn't centered around Roses and Wilkie's need for each other, there was the mystery of who Roses really is. She doesn't know who her birth parents are and she's always had a strange tattoo on her back. I think most readers are going to figure out who her parents are pretty quickly, like I did. Also the laird she fought against in the beginning very much wants her back. Wilkie and his clan must figure out a way to keep her safe from their neighboring laird.
The story was not badly written and some of the first person description from Roses was beautiful, but the characters were too much of a disappointment.
ARC provided through NetGalley.
never-to-read
April 18, 2013Before I review this book, I have to say, this book isn't bad. It just is not my cup of tea.
It is the same old story about a historical romance where the man is handsome and has had his fair share of women and bed sport, while the woman is beautiful, while still remaining a virgin. Being a highlander, this particular man is especially jealous and possessive, which is ironic considering that he is the one who is not a saint.
Also I found the premise of their love a bit artificial. They find the other person insurmountably handsome/beautiful. Like species they have never seen before. I need a bit more depth to the romance.
I also did not like how the heroine was willing to be his mistress. Not cool when she was running away from a man who wanted to make her his mistress. Yes, I understand that they are completely different men, but the fact remains, she would be a mistress, while he would have a wife. Where is the respect in that? I had none for her.
Enough said, this was a DNF.
It is the same old story about a historical romance where the man is handsome and has had his fair share of women and bed sport, while the woman is beautiful, while still remaining a virgin. Being a highlander, this particular man is especially jealous and possessive, which is ironic considering that he is the one who is not a saint.
Also I found the premise of their love a bit artificial. They find the other person insurmountably handsome/beautiful. Like species they have never seen before. I need a bit more depth to the romance.
I also did not like how the heroine was willing to be his mistress. Not cool when she was running away from a man who wanted to make her his mistress. Yes, I understand that they are completely different men, but the fact remains, she would be a mistress, while he would have a wife. Where is the respect in that? I had none for her.
Enough said, this was a DNF.
October 31, 2012
Great cover, but too slow for my liking. I lost interest after a dragging start and just skimmed the last 60% of the book.
December 31, 2015
Like, 4.5 rounded up for some original aspects.
This was one of my favorite reads this year so far. Stay with me...
My television at home frequents exactly two channels - The Disney Channel and Food Network. This means that 100% of my tube time is spent either humming along to some genius theme song that is meant to be stuck in your head all day, or watching people make and eat food. These are two brainless, happy, and breezy ways to pass the time, no? And you know what? I like it that way. No violence, no criticism or hatred, just a nice buzzing background noise of extremely blissful people.
So I wonder, if my tastes in television are so very unsophisticated, why do I pick apart my admittingly fluffy reading? Hunh.
Guy Fieri was swirling around in my brain the entire time I was reading this book (weird, I know). Every time I read something that was clearly out of place, or some little detail that seemed inaccurate (or usage of slang that far too modern), I would be reminded about how Guy doesn't walk into some dive and dis them for making something as mundane as meatloaf, even when they're using things like kitchen bouquet. If it tastes good, he says so.
I get that this book is no great work of literature, but I don't read James Joyce for a reason. Highlander Claimed is entertaining and it has good storytelling. The subtle humor made me smile. The first person POV was a refreshing change from the hundred or so other historicals I've read. I felt like I was reading Roses diary, straightforward but deeply passionate. It was nice that the really flowery prose was only during the coupling scenes, which were tasteful and the word choices weren't overly contrived.
And as for Roses character? While I generally look for heroines that are completely kick-ass and independent, I get that this is a very modern possibility only. Given the time frame of this book, it makes sense that Roses is submissive to Wilkie, which is somewhat against the grain in terms of characterization in other more recent historicals. But what sets this book apart from, say, those 70's submissive romances, is that there is no over-bearing, rapetastic Alpha. Wilkie is a good combination of fierce warrior and compassionate human being who doesn't act like a rutting primate (well, only in the really good ways).
So, while I'm not the most cultivated reader out there, I know what I like and I like to be charmed. I like to read about swoonworthy heroes and interesting heroines and exciting, fresh looks at plot devices. For me, Highlander Claimed made my palette sing for all those reasons.
This was one of my favorite reads this year so far. Stay with me...
My television at home frequents exactly two channels - The Disney Channel and Food Network. This means that 100% of my tube time is spent either humming along to some genius theme song that is meant to be stuck in your head all day, or watching people make and eat food. These are two brainless, happy, and breezy ways to pass the time, no? And you know what? I like it that way. No violence, no criticism or hatred, just a nice buzzing background noise of extremely blissful people.
So I wonder, if my tastes in television are so very unsophisticated, why do I pick apart my admittingly fluffy reading? Hunh.
Guy Fieri was swirling around in my brain the entire time I was reading this book (weird, I know). Every time I read something that was clearly out of place, or some little detail that seemed inaccurate (or usage of slang that far too modern), I would be reminded about how Guy doesn't walk into some dive and dis them for making something as mundane as meatloaf, even when they're using things like kitchen bouquet. If it tastes good, he says so.
I get that this book is no great work of literature, but I don't read James Joyce for a reason. Highlander Claimed is entertaining and it has good storytelling. The subtle humor made me smile. The first person POV was a refreshing change from the hundred or so other historicals I've read. I felt like I was reading Roses diary, straightforward but deeply passionate. It was nice that the really flowery prose was only during the coupling scenes, which were tasteful and the word choices weren't overly contrived.
And as for Roses character? While I generally look for heroines that are completely kick-ass and independent, I get that this is a very modern possibility only. Given the time frame of this book, it makes sense that Roses is submissive to Wilkie, which is somewhat against the grain in terms of characterization in other more recent historicals. But what sets this book apart from, say, those 70's submissive romances, is that there is no over-bearing, rapetastic Alpha. Wilkie is a good combination of fierce warrior and compassionate human being who doesn't act like a rutting primate (well, only in the really good ways).
So, while I'm not the most cultivated reader out there, I know what I like and I like to be charmed. I like to read about swoonworthy heroes and interesting heroines and exciting, fresh looks at plot devices. For me, Highlander Claimed made my palette sing for all those reasons.
March 12, 2013
My first experience with this author, Juliette Miller, and while I loved the story line, I found a few characteristics of the writing and characters that detracted and lowered my overall enjoyment. First, I totally want my heroes and heroines to be attractive both physically and emotionally, but I also look for realism. It seemed to me that the hero and heroine of HIGHLANDER CLAIMED were beyond just attractive, but uncannily beautiful. The heroine is referred to many times as an "Angel" by the hero (assuming in looks, since from the start of this description, he does not know her at all) and his reaction to her is as if she really were some otherworldly being. The heroine also describes the hero as the most beautiful being/man she has ever seen. However, no other character really reacts to the heroine's beauty in anything close to the same way which makes suspect how beautiful she really is? Second, the story is written from the first-person point of view which is that of the heroine. It is a rather unique way of writing a romance, but I have concluded that I much prefer the more omniscient point of view most authors use. I like being inside the head of the main characters to know exactly what and how they are thinking/feeling. Hearing second hand about how some one else reacted according to another kept me from really feeling like I was part of the story. I did enjoy the overall character of the heroine. She was life-smart, even if not book smart. I had to respect her ability to persevere under extreme situations. The hero was a 10+ on the sexuality/testosterone scale, but his total control and dependency on having the heroine within reach at all times was, again, a little unreal. The apparent fear he had of her disappearing if she wasn't within sight was at odds with such a virile, courageous, and strong man.
Even with these few distractions, I did enjoy the story, and I would definitely read a Juliette Miller romance in the future.
Even with these few distractions, I did enjoy the story, and I would definitely read a Juliette Miller romance in the future.
December 7, 2012
Thank you, NetGalley and Harlequin, for the opportunity to read HIGHLAND CLAIMED by Juliette Miller.
This was fun.
Roses knew that her Laird was going to push an indecent proposal on her. I liked her backbone when she defended herself against Laird Ogilvie and made a run for it. She doesn't have much of a plan, but she is definitely going to get away.
When she spies a Mackenzie bathing, she's pretty much thunderstruck. And him? Well, when he tips her helmet off and sees the beautiful woman with the very fair hair, he is beyond smitten. He is love struck.
Roses is hiding a tattoo, one that she was told would bring about her death on a fiery pyre. She really doesn't want that to happen. But the Mackenzie's are wonderful people as they take her in and make her comfortable, even after her nearly deadly introduction.
They mystery was pretty easy to guess, but that didn't detract from the romance of these two finding their way together.
I did have a couple of issues with continuity in the plot. How much time had passed? It tended to shift. And at one point a group are running, on horseback, for TWO DAYS, with two short breaks to get a drink? Yes, horses don't work that way.
Beyond those small items, this was a fun read and sets up for further books. I want to know what happens to Kade and Knox. Those men need their own HEAs.
This was fun.
Roses knew that her Laird was going to push an indecent proposal on her. I liked her backbone when she defended herself against Laird Ogilvie and made a run for it. She doesn't have much of a plan, but she is definitely going to get away.
When she spies a Mackenzie bathing, she's pretty much thunderstruck. And him? Well, when he tips her helmet off and sees the beautiful woman with the very fair hair, he is beyond smitten. He is love struck.
Roses is hiding a tattoo, one that she was told would bring about her death on a fiery pyre. She really doesn't want that to happen. But the Mackenzie's are wonderful people as they take her in and make her comfortable, even after her nearly deadly introduction.
They mystery was pretty easy to guess, but that didn't detract from the romance of these two finding their way together.
I did have a couple of issues with continuity in the plot. How much time had passed? It tended to shift. And at one point a group are running, on horseback, for TWO DAYS, with two short breaks to get a drink? Yes, horses don't work that way.
Beyond those small items, this was a fun read and sets up for further books. I want to know what happens to Kade and Knox. Those men need their own HEAs.
January 16, 2016
This is the first book in the series " Clan Mackenize" I have fallen in love with this book and it series. Our heroine is Roses, who has been an orphan and is really an outcast. She is approached by Laird Ogilvie with an indecent offer. While trying to get away from Laird Ogilvie and his offer and runs into Wilkie Mackenzie. Wilkie Mackenzie was set as most families to marry to make a match to help with their clan. But of course after meeting Rose their seems only to be her for him. I am so glad to have found this author and this series. I hope that you too will enjoy it!
February 10, 2017
Actual Rating: 2.5 Stars
Okay. So this wasn't exactly what I'd expected, but I hadn't actually expected to be bored and frustrated out of my mind for the first 60% of the book, and was honestly quite surprised that I had made it that far. Highlander Claimed has it's charms, but seriously, this isn't a book for me. Truth be told, I feel like it was maybe 200 pages too long, lingering too emphatically on how much our hero and heroine love each other, on how beautiful they find each other, on how they feel relentlessly, fatefully bound to one another, and on how wildly our hero reacts whenever he's parted from the heroine.
It would have made a pretty romantic story for many, I suppose, if you don't think about the fact that these two had met all of one day, had fought and injured each other, and are both really only consumed by each others' beauty, before almost instantaneously claiming that neither would be able to live without the other.
The first and second chapters of this book were extremely promising, presenting to me, a heroine who seemed to be strong and decisive... before turning her personality around into a subservient damsel. I understand that women during historical times were supposed to be subservient and defer to the men... and this is probably why I've never been drawn to historical fiction... but I kind of feel like the behaviors of both Roses and Wilkie seems a bit over-dramatic and extreme. And Wilkie even sometimes comes off as a little creepily obsessive, and childish in his tantrums.
If this man were not ungodly good-looking, predisposed to being the "good" hero of a historical romance, or given many, many excuses for his behavior... how many women would truly swoon? Replace him with the repugnant Laird Olgilvie from the beginning of the book, give him the same behaviors that Wilkie presents, and I imagine Roses's reactions would not be as forgiving.
Really, all that this couple had going for them in their love story was how unerringly beautiful they found each other. It also doesn't help that both hero and heroine also turned out be super-perfect people. Considering that this is a romance novel, first and foremost, I could almost forgive that. But honestly, after 50% of our couple waxing poetic about how perfect they find each other, how much they love each other, and how hard it will be to be parted, I think I had enough.
The ending chapters were actually kind of exciting which lead to a nice little reprieve from the frustrating, which is why I'm just giving this book a 'meh' rating, rather than straight-out dislike. The big secret about Roses was blatantly obvious when there was talk of a lost child and how important this child would be. Come on now, those neon arrows are absolutely in your face.
***
I read this book for Romance Bingo 2017 for the Man in a Kilt square.
Other squares that may count include:
- Insta-love - The hero and heroine fall in love before they even properly introduce themselves, and suddenly can't live without each other.
- Virgin & Best First Time
- Historical Romance
- Secret Billionaire - As a historical, I think being secret nobility or royalty of a sort could work for this square.
- Love (Free Space
Okay. So this wasn't exactly what I'd expected, but I hadn't actually expected to be bored and frustrated out of my mind for the first 60% of the book, and was honestly quite surprised that I had made it that far. Highlander Claimed has it's charms, but seriously, this isn't a book for me. Truth be told, I feel like it was maybe 200 pages too long, lingering too emphatically on how much our hero and heroine love each other, on how beautiful they find each other, on how they feel relentlessly, fatefully bound to one another, and on how wildly our hero reacts whenever he's parted from the heroine.
It would have made a pretty romantic story for many, I suppose, if you don't think about the fact that these two had met all of one day, had fought and injured each other, and are both really only consumed by each others' beauty, before almost instantaneously claiming that neither would be able to live without the other.
The first and second chapters of this book were extremely promising, presenting to me, a heroine who seemed to be strong and decisive... before turning her personality around into a subservient damsel. I understand that women during historical times were supposed to be subservient and defer to the men... and this is probably why I've never been drawn to historical fiction... but I kind of feel like the behaviors of both Roses and Wilkie seems a bit over-dramatic and extreme. And Wilkie even sometimes comes off as a little creepily obsessive, and childish in his tantrums.
If this man were not ungodly good-looking, predisposed to being the "good" hero of a historical romance, or given many, many excuses for his behavior... how many women would truly swoon? Replace him with the repugnant Laird Olgilvie from the beginning of the book, give him the same behaviors that Wilkie presents, and I imagine Roses's reactions would not be as forgiving.
Really, all that this couple had going for them in their love story was how unerringly beautiful they found each other. It also doesn't help that both hero and heroine also turned out be super-perfect people. Considering that this is a romance novel, first and foremost, I could almost forgive that. But honestly, after 50% of our couple waxing poetic about how perfect they find each other, how much they love each other, and how hard it will be to be parted, I think I had enough.
The ending chapters were actually kind of exciting which lead to a nice little reprieve from the frustrating, which is why I'm just giving this book a 'meh' rating, rather than straight-out dislike. The big secret about Roses was blatantly obvious when there was talk of a lost child and how important this child would be. Come on now, those neon arrows are absolutely in your face.
***
I read this book for Romance Bingo 2017 for the Man in a Kilt square.
Other squares that may count include:
- Insta-love - The hero and heroine fall in love before they even properly introduce themselves, and suddenly can't live without each other.
- Virgin & Best First Time
- Historical Romance
- Secret Billionaire - As a historical, I think being secret nobility or royalty of a sort could work for this square.
- Love (Free Space
February 1, 2013
Roses sets off on her own to find another destiny than the one guaranteed with the Ogilvie Clan. The laird attempted to rape her and had plans to force her to be one of his many mistresses. Having Wilkie Mackenzie interrupt her escape ended up being her blessing. To say he became obsessed with her is to put it mildly and her devotion to him didn’t fall far from the same.
This was an interesting story with an even more compelling conflict. Knox, the laird of the Mackenzie Clan and Wilkie’s oldest brother, had some very serious issues with Roses relationship with Wilkie. They were facing a potential war to defend the legacy of King William and the alliance formed from Wilkie’s marriage to the daughter of a neighboring clan was essential to their preparedness. Laird Ogilvie was also a constant threat as he was doggedly determined to get Roses back and not just because she injured him and ran away.
Wilkie’s obsessive love, however, was a bit of a distraction. I was willing to accept that he was lovestruck almost at first sight but the level to which he expressed his feelings was harder to swallow. He was willing to forsake just about everything to be in Roses’ constant presence. In spite of this, I thought their romance was sweet and pretty steamy most of the time. There are plenty of other feisty and interesting characters who I look forward to learning more about in the next two books.
Ultimately, I enjoyed the story, even though the first person narrative unnecessarily slowed the pace of the tale. Roses’ story has a twist (it wasn’t hard to deduce, by the way) that adds tension to the already boiling over conflict. I also plan to continue the series and am looking forward to the next book involving the youngest Mackenzie.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
This was an interesting story with an even more compelling conflict. Knox, the laird of the Mackenzie Clan and Wilkie’s oldest brother, had some very serious issues with Roses relationship with Wilkie. They were facing a potential war to defend the legacy of King William and the alliance formed from Wilkie’s marriage to the daughter of a neighboring clan was essential to their preparedness. Laird Ogilvie was also a constant threat as he was doggedly determined to get Roses back and not just because she injured him and ran away.
Wilkie’s obsessive love, however, was a bit of a distraction. I was willing to accept that he was lovestruck almost at first sight but the level to which he expressed his feelings was harder to swallow. He was willing to forsake just about everything to be in Roses’ constant presence. In spite of this, I thought their romance was sweet and pretty steamy most of the time. There are plenty of other feisty and interesting characters who I look forward to learning more about in the next two books.
Ultimately, I enjoyed the story, even though the first person narrative unnecessarily slowed the pace of the tale. Roses’ story has a twist (it wasn’t hard to deduce, by the way) that adds tension to the already boiling over conflict. I also plan to continue the series and am looking forward to the next book involving the youngest Mackenzie.
(I received an ARC from NetGalley)
December 5, 2012
I endeavor to enjoy every book I read… honest! It’s like meeting a new friend for me, and this book had all the earmarks of a good friend. It has a mysterious highland lass, an evil highland laird who mistreated her, and the handsome strong warrior hell bent on saving her. Unfortunately, that is where this friendship ended! Part of the problem could stem from the fact that this book is written in first person format. I never truly understood any views other than, in this case, Roses, the female protagonist. I couldn’t fully grasp why Wilkie, our hero, fell so hard and fast in love with Roses; it made no sense to me whatsoever. To me there really was no insight into his reasoning. The story was entirely one sided.
I should back up a little and tell you a bit about this story. Roses, a young lady who is a kitchen servant for a fairly evil laird named Ogilvie, recently lost her mother. She now has taken on extra duties in the keep, and striving to avoid the grabbing hands of the lecherous laird. She is trapped by him in his room one morning. Stabbing him with her kitchen knife, she flees for her life. After running for two days, she finds herself on MacKenzie land. Thinking herself safe for a time, she sneaks into their orchard to steal some fruit only to be caught by the second son, Wilkie. He, thinking her a man, engages her in a sword fight, where both are injured, (he more so than she) and she seeks help from the keep to save his life… and hers as well.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2012/1...
I should back up a little and tell you a bit about this story. Roses, a young lady who is a kitchen servant for a fairly evil laird named Ogilvie, recently lost her mother. She now has taken on extra duties in the keep, and striving to avoid the grabbing hands of the lecherous laird. She is trapped by him in his room one morning. Stabbing him with her kitchen knife, she flees for her life. After running for two days, she finds herself on MacKenzie land. Thinking herself safe for a time, she sneaks into their orchard to steal some fruit only to be caught by the second son, Wilkie. He, thinking her a man, engages her in a sword fight, where both are injured, (he more so than she) and she seeks help from the keep to save his life… and hers as well.
For the full review, please go to http://www.thewindowseat13.com/2012/1...
January 12, 2013
This book was recommended to me by a friend. I noticed from the reviews that the same reason some people are rating it highly is the same reason that others are giving it more critical reviews: it's written in the first person narrative, unusual for a romance novel. I think this is what makes this book stand out among other romances; it's a nice point of difference and I think the author did a fantastic job with the voice of the narrator.
I won't describe the plot here since many others have already, but I will say that I was swept away by this book. I couldn't put it down. One other review said that this author doesn't write a boring scene and I agree. The writer did a great job of pacing this book so that the reader is completely drawn into the action, which keeps coming.
I absolutely fell in love with Wilkie. He's a great character, partly because he's flawed and very believable. He's completely 100% head over heels in love and it makes him a little crazy - and who wouldn't be drawn to a HOT hero who's so in love with the heroine that he'll do absolutely anything to keep her?
The sex scenes in this book were touching. They were explicit but also very romantic. The lovers are so drawn to each other that the reader can't help but feel their emotions. I think this writer has a real talent for the steamy romantic scenes and she doesn't hold back!
The author also did a great job of setting up the next book. Kade sounds as hot - or hotter - than Wilkie and I've already pre-ordered the next in the series. Anyone who loves romance with love this book!
I won't describe the plot here since many others have already, but I will say that I was swept away by this book. I couldn't put it down. One other review said that this author doesn't write a boring scene and I agree. The writer did a great job of pacing this book so that the reader is completely drawn into the action, which keeps coming.
I absolutely fell in love with Wilkie. He's a great character, partly because he's flawed and very believable. He's completely 100% head over heels in love and it makes him a little crazy - and who wouldn't be drawn to a HOT hero who's so in love with the heroine that he'll do absolutely anything to keep her?
The sex scenes in this book were touching. They were explicit but also very romantic. The lovers are so drawn to each other that the reader can't help but feel their emotions. I think this writer has a real talent for the steamy romantic scenes and she doesn't hold back!
The author also did a great job of setting up the next book. Kade sounds as hot - or hotter - than Wilkie and I've already pre-ordered the next in the series. Anyone who loves romance with love this book!
July 20, 2013
Wonderful beginning to a trilogy about the Mackenzies. In this novel we meet Wilkie the Laird's middle brother. Wilkie is known for his good looks and ways with women. While bathing one day he sees what his thinks is a lad stealing food. As he chases the thief he has yet to realize it is woman.
Roses is trying to make her way north to the Highlands. After leaving her clan while refusing her former Laird's advances. She is starving and goes to the Mackenzie's orchard to find some food. While there she is caught by Wilkie. As she tries to get away from him a fight ensues. Both are injured and Roses must go for help to save his life.
The story follows the recovery of both. Wilkie finds himself caught between duty and love when his brother refuses to accept his decision to marry Roses. A great story of how love triumphs all.
Roses is trying to make her way north to the Highlands. After leaving her clan while refusing her former Laird's advances. She is starving and goes to the Mackenzie's orchard to find some food. While there she is caught by Wilkie. As she tries to get away from him a fight ensues. Both are injured and Roses must go for help to save his life.
The story follows the recovery of both. Wilkie finds himself caught between duty and love when his brother refuses to accept his decision to marry Roses. A great story of how love triumphs all.
April 3, 2016
"Je ne vais donc pas m'appesantir plus sur cette lecture. Même si j'ai bien aimé cette lecture, j'ai trouvé que la romance (érotique, disons-le), prenait bien trop de place dans cette histoire, ce qui est vraiment dommage. Les intrigues que nous proposait l'auteure étaient vraiment intéressantes, et auraient mérité d'être mises plus en avant. Donc c'est pour moi un avis en demi-teinte, mais je lirai le second tome, car le il concerne Kade, le petit frère de Wilkie et que je l'ai beaucoup aimé dans ce premier tome."
Chronique complète: http://lireunepassion.blogspot.fr/201...
Chronique complète: http://lireunepassion.blogspot.fr/201...
January 17, 2013
What a lovely book by a promising debut author. Poetic and touching. This didn't read like a debut. I want Wilkie! :) This book is a departure from your usual romance. Roses is strong but not "feisty". She's so in love and her life aside from Wilkie is somewhat hopeless so she invests everthing she has into her love - and Wilkie returns it entirely, even though he has much more to lose. I found this gratifying and engaging. Deeply romantic, and the book comes across as more literary than most other genre romance novels. I found myself wanting to reread this as soon as I finished it.
December 6, 2012
I loved the hero in this book. Wilkie (ususual name, but I warmed to it) - made me want to crawl into this book and become Roses, the heroine. He sounds hot and the descriptions of what he does to her (told from the heroine's point of view, which only enhances the sex scenes in my opinion) are great. I would recommend this one.
December 24, 2016
DNF @ 26%.
What the hell is going on in this book? The H and h meet, they injure each other, and boom suddenly the H can't bear to be without her. Nothing made sense. The h was ok rubbing up against a total stranger. Come on girl, have some god damn respect for yourself!!
What the hell is going on in this book? The H and h meet, they injure each other, and boom suddenly the H can't bear to be without her. Nothing made sense. The h was ok rubbing up against a total stranger. Come on girl, have some god damn respect for yourself!!
January 6, 2013
I loved this book! Roses and Wilkie stole my heart!
April 10, 2014
What a truly wonderful book!
May 23, 2015
Abandon à 69 pages. Pas de chronique.
September 6, 2021
Wilkie Mackenzie walks out of his morning swim in the loch and sees an intruder. He chases the intruder and they fight. When he takes off his opponent’s helmet, he is stunned to find a woman. She looks like an angel with white blonde hair and green eyes. Roses bested him in the fight and goes to the Mackenzie keep to get help. Wilkie can’t keep his eyes or his hands off of her and doesn’t want her to leave his bed. She finally admits she worked at the Ogilvie keep and ran after stabbing Laird Ogilvie. She also tells Wilkie and his brother Laird Knox Mackenzie that Ogilvie was hosting Laird Campbell and they were discussing the rebellion. Roses doesn’t tell anyone about the tattoo on her back but Wilkie’s sisters and Laird Ogilvie saw it and he knew what it meant. He is determined to get her back and, with her, he can get his hand on greater riches—control of Ossian Lochs.
She thought the tattoo was bad and she would be burned as a witch but Wilkie's sisters tell her that their brother is aware of all tattoos and what they stand for. If she had kept her word and showed Wilkie, it would have saved a lot of pain for everyone.
I thought the character of Roses was not too smart. She did a lot of stupid things such as letting the gardener stroke her face and letting another clansman flirt too much with her. Wilkie must have hit his head because all he could say was "Roses, his angel". He was supposed to be a great warrior but didn't act like one when he's around her. All he could think about was getting her in his bed.
I read Highlander Taken (Mackenzie #2) before reading this one and thought it was much better. At least the characters of Kade and Stella didn't act so goofy!
She thought the tattoo was bad and she would be burned as a witch but Wilkie's sisters tell her that their brother is aware of all tattoos and what they stand for. If she had kept her word and showed Wilkie, it would have saved a lot of pain for everyone.
I thought the character of Roses was not too smart. She did a lot of stupid things such as letting the gardener stroke her face and letting another clansman flirt too much with her. Wilkie must have hit his head because all he could say was "Roses, his angel". He was supposed to be a great warrior but didn't act like one when he's around her. All he could think about was getting her in his bed.
I read Highlander Taken (Mackenzie #2) before reading this one and thought it was much better. At least the characters of Kade and Stella didn't act so goofy!
February 24, 2025
******SPOILER ALERT*****
I really wanted to like this book, but I can't when the main character is so stupid, and so is her love interest. It's like the Swan Princess because, if you ask McRomance about what he liked about his Princess, he'd say, "she's beautiful" and we all know how it would go after that.
The lack of character growth is extreme. No one grows at all through this whole book, and worse they are trite. Everything is spoon fed to you, and you can predict everything before it happens.
I think I kept going because I genuinely thought things would get better, but the part where she wanted to leave AND THEN TOLD EVERYONE was so dumb I was genuinely irritated. It's just not the book for me.
I really wanted to like this book, but I can't when the main character is so stupid, and so is her love interest. It's like the Swan Princess because, if you ask McRomance about what he liked about his Princess, he'd say, "she's beautiful" and we all know how it would go after that.
The lack of character growth is extreme. No one grows at all through this whole book, and worse they are trite. Everything is spoon fed to you, and you can predict everything before it happens.
I think I kept going because I genuinely thought things would get better, but the part where she wanted to leave AND THEN TOLD EVERYONE was so dumb I was genuinely irritated. It's just not the book for me.
January 31, 2020
((goosebumps))
At first I was waiting for someone's pov other than Roses into narrative. but it was only one, hers; Roses.
I wanted to feel and read Wilkie's. Tad disappointed. 😞
Quietly he said, " And you learned that I love you. Deeply. Madly. Insatiably. Did you know that already, too Roses?"
"Beautiful warrior, you are my heart."
Wilkie ♥️ Roses
At first I was waiting for someone's pov other than Roses into narrative. but it was only one, hers; Roses.
I wanted to feel and read Wilkie's. Tad disappointed. 😞
Quietly he said, " And you learned that I love you. Deeply. Madly. Insatiably. Did you know that already, too Roses?"
"Beautiful warrior, you are my heart."
Wilkie ♥️ Roses
September 28, 2019
Predictable romance. Didn't mind the 1st person narrative.
Read
June 15, 2020That the heroine's name was 'Roses' was incredibly frustrating to read. I also wasn't engaged by the writing or the plot. DNF.
July 18, 2020
2.5. Entertaining but didn’t like the first person narrative only from her perspective. Too much insta love and obsession.
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