Book Review-Once Upon A Tartan

Once Upon A Tartan
 MacGregor Trilogy (2)
Grace Burrowes
Sourcebooks Casablanca
Paperback
Published August 2013
382 Pages
Scottish Highlands Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-1-40226869-4
Authors Website

Synopsis 
Hester MacDaniel is recovering from an engagement gone awry by summering at her brother's holding in the Highlands, and looking after her brother's young step-daughter, Fiona.

Tiberius Flynn, heir to the English Marquis of Quinworth, appears on Hester's doorstep claiming he's Fee's paternal uncle, and he's been sent by her English relations to make the girl's acquaintance.

Tye believes his brother's dying wishes compel him to take Fee south with him, but he doesn't plan on Hester capturing his heart, even as she fights him tooth and nail for custody of Fiona.

My Review

Tiberius has been sent on a serious mission by his father up to the highlands. As much as Tiberius despises himself for what he will have to do, he reminds himself that he doesn't have a choice. Hester Daniels has been taking care of Fiona, a relative, a little girl that is in need of mothering and someone to watch over her. Fiona's mother has recently gotten married and has gone on a honeymoon, so Hester has taken it upon herself to take care of this feisty little girl who has her wrapped around her finger. Hester will do anything for Fiona. When a stranger arrives on her doorstep, insisting that he is Fiona's uncle, she is more than a little suspicious. She has never met the man, and she feels as if he is hiding something very important from her. But as the three of them spend time together, she starts to soften, seeing a side of Tye she didn't imagine she would when she first met him. A powerful passion starts to build between Hester and Tye, and before Hester realizes it, she knows that she could very easily give up her heart to this virile man that heats her blood.But there is a secret Tye is hiding from her and she can't fully give him her heart until she know him body and soul.

Once Upon A Tartan is the Second in the series, and is set up in Scotland. and this trilogy is part of the MacGregor clan. It starts out with a sweet scene between Tye and his niece Fiona. I enjoyed seeing the connection they instantly make, and having a weakness for charming and adorable little runts, I couldn't help but fall in love with Fiona instantly. She has such a curiosity and open trust that is heartwarming. The story then begins when Tye and Hester meet for the first time, which isn't exactly smooth sailing. Fireworks explode, because Hester has little trust in men, but especially strangers that bring Fiona home, a little girl who is everything to Hester. Hester has suffered through a scandal and has been hurt in the past, but you see she can't help but be drawn to Tye. Tye alone is sexy as sin. As the reader, you see a glimpse of what he is dealing with internally, but you don't see the full scheme of things till much later on. I liked the tension between Tye and Hester heat up, and I loved how Hester doesn't care about consequences, she is bold and daring, but protects her heart fiercely.

Once Upon A Tartan was a savorful story that makes your mouth water. There were times I had to force myself to keep reading, I think either I was letting myself get distracted from reading, or sometimes I feel like this is the style of Burrowes writing at times. Doesn't fully captivate you 100% of the time. But I felt the plot was full of a few twist and turns, not overdoing it at all, but I also wished there had been a bit more to the story. I felt at the end that it was a fully satisfying read, but part of me wished that there had been a bit more of a conflict involved. I did love the aspect of adding a child into the story. It always add a certain sense of innocence and playfulness to it. It was fun seeing Tye and Fiona connect and go on adventures together, the descriptions were so well done, I almost felt like I was actually there. I felt the characterization were well done for the most part, I don't have any complaints on Tye or Hester. They were a fun and exciting couple to see get attached to each other. We also see the involvement of Ian and Augusta (the couple from the first book for those of you who haven't read this series yet), which was fun to see them again and their connection to Hester.

I enjoyed this story much more than I imagined I would in the beginning. It did take me quite a few pages, before I got fully drawn into the story. But that tends to happen with Grace Burrowes. I feel like you really have to give her books a chance, you can't just quit after a few pages. For me, it takes a couple chapters, before I find myself finding true fun in the story. I do want to say that one of my ultimate favorite things about Burrowe's books, are the covers. They are so exquisite and slightly erotic, but not overly much too, just enough to entice anyone to pick it up. They have a certain quality about them, that is full of color and goes along with the theme of the story or the series. A wonderfully written love story, that is bursting with a sensuality and a certain polish to it that brings forth a vibrancy to the story. A Richly emotion filled tale that will capture your heart!!

My Grade 
4 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In The Series 
The Bridegroom Wore Plaid
The Macgregors Lady 

Top Ten Tuesday (11)- Top Ten Character Names I Love or Top Ten Unusual Character Names

Top Ten Tuesday is an original feature/weekly meme was created and hosted at The Broke and the Bookish. Each week there will post a new Top Ten list that one of the bloggers at The Broke and the Bookish will answer. Everyone is welcome to join. All you have to do is link back to The Broke and the Bookish on your own Top Ten Tuesday post AND add your name to the Linky widget so that everyone can check out other bloggers lists! If you don't have a blog, just post your answers as a comment. Have fun with it! It's a fun way to get to know your fellow bloggers. So Come and Join in the Fun!! :)

Top Ten Character Names I Love or Top Ten Unusual Character Names

1.

I really like the name of the hero in this one; Torin McLeren. It has a certain unique ring to it. 

2.

 When I first read Dragon Bound, it was the heroines first name that really drew me to the story. Pia Giavanni.

3.

This book is part of one of my favorite series of all time. I fell in love with the hero, Cian MacKeltar. His name alone is swoon worthy. 

4.

Lady Calpurnia Hartwell--even though she goes by Callie (which is a sweet name) I love her full name, definitely more original. 

5.

I have to say that this is my favorite series by Banks. I don't like all of her books, but she has done wonders with these scottish historical's. In this story I really liked the names used, but most especially Mairin- which is a name I have always liked immensely.

6.

The Wolf and the Dove was one of the first medieval romances I read, and I liked both of the names used. Wulfgar and Aislinn and I just love how well they go together too!!

7.

Dark Desire is a very stimulating read, and ever since I read it (or I prefer listening to the audiobook), The name of Sheay of the heroine, made me fall in love with it. I may even name my future daughter (if I am gifted with one) of that name, I love the spelling and the pronunciation and the uniqueness of it when I first listened to it. It is a bit more common now, but I still adore it.

8.

Born in Sin is a story I haven't read in a long while, however I always thought the name of the heroine, Caledonia was very different. I always enjoy it when a author uses a uncommon name for her characters. It adds character to the story. 

9. 

Even though I haven't read this one, this book is on my list next to get at my local library. As I was thinking about another unique character name, I remembered Wicked Surrender. Scher Martin is one of the more unusual names, and the first one I have seen used, so its always a delight when that happens. 

10.

In Lady of Desire, Jacinda, is used for the heroine's character name. I believe I have seen this name used before but not very often, its more rare but does get used. I do love it, it tends to roll of the tongue quite easily. 

Its Monday! What Are You Reading? (51)

This is a great weekly meme hosted by Sheila at Book Journey. We simply post what we finished reading over the the last week, what we plan on reading this week, etc .

Books I Read This Past Week 
Somebody To Love (Will Post Review As It Gets Closer To Publishing Date)
A Certain Wolfish Charm- My Review
No Good Duke Goes Unpunished-My Review

Currently Reading 

Whats Up Next

 

Book Review-A Certain Wolfish Charm

A Certain Wolfish Charm
Westfield Wolves (1)
Lydia Dare
Sourcebooks Casablanca
Paperback
Published April 2010
Historical Paranormal Romance
ISBN: 978-1-4022-3694-5
Authors Website

Synopsis
In Lydia dare's debut trilogy, Regency England has gone to the wolves! "He gets crankier and crankier as the moon gets full..."

The rules of Society can be beastly-especially when you're a werewolf and it's that irritating time of the month. Simon Westfield, the Duke of Blackmoor, is rich, powerful, and sinfully handsome, and has spent his entire life creating scandal and mayhem. It doesn't help his wolfish temper at all that Miss Lily Rutledge seems not the least bit afraid of him, and in fact, may be as untamable as he is...

"A woman whose charm is stronger than the moon..."

When Lily's beloved nephew's behavior becomes inexplicably wild, she turns to Simon, the boy's cousin and guardian, for help. But Simon's idea of assistance is far different than hers, and Lily finds herself ensconced in his house and engaged to the rogue.

They both may have bitten off more than they can chew when each begins to discover the other's darkest secrets...

My Review
Lily Rutledge has been raising her nephew ever since her sister and her husband dies in a accident. But then her sweet nephew at the age of twelve starts to dramatically change in ways that doesn't seem very normal. After trying to reach his guardian the Duke of Blackmoor, she decides she is tired of waiting for him to reply to her endless supply of letters that she is sending him. She comes up with a plan in which he won't be able to ignore her any longer, she show up on his very doorstep. Simon, the Duke of Blackmoor has spent his life trying to keep his beast in control. In his mind his nephew is a young boy and he has more pressing concerns. When Miss Lily shows up and starts making demands of him with no fear in her eyes it sets his beast on edge and he knows she is his downfall. When he hears that his nephew is showing dangerous signs he must step in and take full responsibility. Which will put him in close proximity to the lovely Lily and he wonders how he will be able to stop himself from fully claiming her as his mate.

This is the first book I have read from this author and I am very impressed. There is nothing more I love than my two favorite sub genres mixing together in a marvelous blend of historical and a bit of paranormal that is written in a way that brings out a sensual mix of danger and passion. I felt from the first few pages, that the authors style was so captivating I  had the hardest time putting it down. I really enjoyed seeing Simon and Lily spar, very amusing. Simon is fully Alpha Male type of hero, dark and brooding and wants control at all times. Lily has a gentle nature but has a spine of Steele, she is much tougher than she appears to be on the surface. She is like a mama bear when it comes to her nephew despite the danger she senses when she is around Simon.  There is quite a bit of involvement of Simons family which made me excited to read the rest of the series. Overall I found this one to be a good start to the series, and sets the stage for the plot quite well. There was quite a few elements to the story that made it more exciting than I imagined it would be. I loved the edge of danger that remained steadily throughout the story all the way to the end. It kept me on the edge of my seat and I got a thrill on seeing the development of their relationship. Definitely had a thrill of a ride reading this one and I can hardly wait to read the next installment in the series.

My Grade 
4 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
Tall Dark and Wolfish
The Wolf Next Door
The Taming of the Wolf
The Wolf Who Loved Me
Wolfishly Yours 

Lusting For Covers (78) In Total Surrender

Lusting for Covers is a meme found on TBQ so come and join in on this fun meme!!! 1- Take the graphic (left) to use on your post. Remember to give credit to the original host (TBQ). 2- Choose your own book cover that you've fallen in "lust" with in the past week. It can be new, old, a reprint, or even a book that is not yet out-- it's all up to you! If you find a cover that catches your eye, then showcase it on your blog, and let others see the pretty covers out there. 3- Copy the direct link to your own L4C post into the comment section on my post (when in doubt, use this link and then scroll down to find the post), and allow others to come and see what you picked! (OPTIONAL): 4- Besides posting the picture of the book cover you chose, it's nice to provide the book summary, title, author, or a website link for the book. It's not required, but it can help you readers' to add more books to their own list! A brief "Why I choose this cover" is also appreciated, but not required

Andreas Merrick is the king of London's dark underworld, having amassed unimaginable wealth and power...and a fierce reputation that leaves even the bravest men quaking in their boots. Yet one person is maddeningly unintimidated by his fearsome presence: the persistent Miss Phoebe Pace.

Equal parts honey and steel, Phoebe will stop at nothing to find her missing brother and save her family. Though associating with Andreas means peril and scandal, she never expects to experience a passion so intense that it threatens to consume her. But enigmatic Andreas is no ordinary man to love. He brings dangers from all sides -- without and within -- while tempting her beyond her wildest dreams..

On My Wishlist (53)

On My Wishlist is a fun weekly event hosted by Book Chick City and runs every Saturday. It's where I list all the books I desperately want but haven't actually bought yet. They can be old, new or forthcoming.

In Lydia Dare's debut trilogy, Regency England has gone to the wolves!

He's lost the most important part of himself...

Lord Benjamin Westfield is a powerful werewolf—until one full moon when he doesn't change. His life now shattered, he rushes off to Scotland in search of the healer who can restore his inner beast, only to find she's not at all what he expected...

She would make him whole, if she could...

Young, beautiful witch Elspeth Campbell will do anything to help anyone who calls upon her healing arts. Then Lord Benjamin shows up, and she suddenly discovers she may need him even more than he needs her...

In her exhilarating debut novel, Kresley Cole captures the drama, passion, and boundless adventure of the high seas—as one fiery lass finds herself caught in a tide of torrid romance.

Raised as a free spirit aboard her American sea captain father's majestic clipper ship, willful Nicole Lassiter has never encountered an obstacle she couldn't overcome—until she meets Captain Derek Sutherland. His sizzling kisses leave her longing, but after they share a night of passion, his subsequent disdain makes her blood boil. Nicole vows to take her revenge—by helping her father beat Sutherland in a high-stakes competition: the Great Circle Race from England to Australia.

Nicole's scheme is thrown overboard after her father is wrongly imprisoned, yet she remains undaunted—taking to the high seas with her father's ship. But a storm wrecks her plans, and she finds herself a virtual prisoner aboard Sutherland's vessel. And while her mind tells her she should escape, her body urges her to surrender.

Let the Sparks Fly

Bliss Russo thought nothing exciting ever happened in her life. Until her building caught on fire, and she had to be carried out of the flames in the arms of a gorgeous fireman. Sure, her apartment is now in shambles, and she'll have to start her huge work project completely from scratch. But at least her love life is finally looking up…if only she can find her red-hot rescuer again.

Dragon shapeshifter Drake Cameron is the last of his clan, and the loneliness is starting to claw at him. He's met only one woman who might be able to stand the shock of his true nature. After all, she barely batted an eyelash when her home burned down. And feeling her curves against him was just as hot as the inferno. Just when he thinks he'll never track her down, she walks into his firehouse—with no idea what she's about to get herself into…

THEIR LOVE IS JUST BEGINNING.

Detective Charlotte Caissie is growing used to the secrets that come with loving the mysterious leader of a shape-shifter clan. But that doesn’t mean she has to like it. She’s avoided complications of the heart all her life, but when it comes to irresistible Max Savoie, she’ll force the truth out of him if she has to.

HIS TIME IS ALMOST UP.

Hunted by the deadly trackers his nefarious father warned him about, Max is transforming into a preternatural force he can’t explain and Cee Cee will never understand. He’s tempting the dangerous limits of their love, but it’s her curiosity that could get them both killed.

WILL THEY EVER REALLY BE TOGETHER?

When Max discovers the enemy’s true target is someone far more vulnerable than he, he must do the unthinkable to save his own flesh and blood. But he can’t fight this battle alone, and Cee Cee faces the ultimate test of loyalty: the man she’d sacrifice everything for . . . or the laws she swore her life to protect.

Library Loot (47)

Eva with A Striped Armchair, and Marge with The Adventures of a Intrepid Reader, which you should check out both of them, they are great!!! This meme is created to encourage bloggers to share books that they get from the Library, and since I am a avid lover of Libraries this is going to be one meme I am going to love doing every week.

Feature and Follow (39)

The Feature And Follow (Follow Friday) is a weekly meme hosted by Parajunkee and its tons of fun to do this meme and find tons of new friends and great blogs!!! So come and join in this fun meme every friday!!!!

Q: What are some of your favorite magazines?

A: I am not a huge fan of the more social magazines such as people and cosmo. Sometimes I will read them if they are the only ones at the doctors office. But I love National Geographic, Real Simple, and Better Homes. 

ARC Book Review-No Good Duke Goes Unpunished

No Good Duke Goes Unpunished
Rule Of Scoundreals (3)
Sarah MacLean
Avon Books
E Book
Published November 26 2013
384 Pages
Regency Historical Romance
ISBN: 978-0-06-206854-5
Authors Website 

Synopsis
A rogue ruined . . .

He is the Killer Duke, accused of murdering Mara Lowe on the eve of her wedding. With no memory of that fateful night, Temple has reigned over the darkest of London’s corners for twelve years, wealthy and powerful, but beyond redemption. Until one night, Mara resurfaces, offering the one thing he’s dreamed of . . . absolution.

A lady returned . . .

Mara planned never to return to the world from which she’d run, but when her brother falls deep into debt at Temple’s exclusive casino, she has no choice but to offer Temple a trade that ends in her returning to society and proving to the world what only she knows . . . that he is no killer.

A scandal revealed . . .

It’s a fine trade, until Temple realizes that the lady—and her past—are more than they seem. It will take every bit of his strength to resist the pull of this mysterious, maddening woman who seems willing to risk everything for honor . . . and to keep from putting himself on the line for love.

My Review 

Mara has been on the run for over twelve years, having to live a life in hiding. Mara was young and desperate to escape a arranged marriage with a man thrice her age, and wanting to have a form of control, set a man up hoping that others would assume he had ruined her, but instead they thought he murdered her. Now twelve years later she has come back to London to offer Temple a trade, one which she knows he won't be able to resist taking her up. Temple is shocked when he finds himself facing the one woman that ruined him. Despite holding the title of "Duke" he hasn't lived that kind of life for twelve years, and is more than happy with who he is. However Temple can't seem to resist Mara, and  despite his bitterness and anger toward her betrayal, he knows that she holds the key to Temple gaining back everything that he lost. Mara has many regrets, but her main concern is keeping the boys home together, and will do anything to keep it going, even if it means her ruination and one of the biggest scandals that London has ever seen.

 I was able to receive a copy of this book through Edelweiss and Avon publishing. I have been waiting for this one to come out for quite some time. I have to say this one just might be my favorite of the series. I have just started to get back into reading, and I am glad that this is one of the first books I started reading again. I have always enjoyed Sarah Maclean, Her writing style and passion is evident through every story that she writes, and the same holds true for No Good Duke Goes Unpunished. With some books the revenge theme sometimes never goes over well, but I found Maclean's style of plot and the zestiness of the characters only made this theme work quite well, and became a story that was quite impossible to put down. The connection between Temple and Mara was instantaneous from the first page. You see how despite each going after what they each desire, they end up willing to give up everything for the other. A emotionally driven tale that is woven smoothly with the plot that it gives it a spice that only adds to the story even more. A beautifully written gem of a romance that captured me from the beginning, a love story that will curl your toes and sexy enough to fog up the windows!! A remarkable tale of love, forgiveness and the excitement of danger and intrigue. 

My Grade 
4.5 Blossoms

Heat Rating 
Steamy

Other Books In Series 
A Rogue By Any Other Name
One Good Earl Deserves A Lover

Returning back to the blogging world

After taking a little time, and working out some kinks in my schedule I have decided its time to come back. I hope to get back into the swing of things again and to discuss books and authors and the latest news with you all. It took a while for me to debate when to come back, I didn't want to return too soon, however I decided that this is the right time. Definitely excited to get back into the swing of things. 

Taking A Break

Sad News everyone!! I will be leaving my blog for a while. Life is getting too crazy for me to devote time to it for a while. I will still be on goodreads daily, so hope to keep in contact with all of you on there. I still plan on reading, I just haven't been able to find enough time to make sure I see to my blog as well. It really saddens me to do this, and I have been debating on what to do. I think eventually I will come back, when things slow down a bit. Too many responsibilities currently, and feel like I am being too stretched so I will have to put this blog on hold. I will still keep it up, so feel free to look over the reviews. I hope to come back when I feel I can devote time to it that it deserves. Thanks to all of you who have shown your support, and friendship.

Lusting For Covers (77) Desert Eden

Lusting for Covers is a meme found on TBQ so come and join in on this fun meme!!! 1- Take the graphic (left) to use on your post. Remember to give credit to the original host (TBQ). 2- Choose your own book cover that you've fallen in "lust" with in the past week. It can be new, old, a reprint, or even a book that is not yet out-- it's all up to you! If you find a cover that catches your eye, then showcase it on your blog, and let others see the pretty covers out there. 3- Copy the direct link to your own L4C post into the comment section on my post (when in doubt, use this link and then scroll down to find the post), and allow others to come and see what you picked! (OPTIONAL): 4- Besides posting the picture of the book cover you chose, it's nice to provide the book summary, title, author, or a website link for the book. It's not required, but it can help you readers' to add more books to their own list! A brief "Why I choose this cover" is also appreciated, but not required

HER INDOMITABLE SPIRIT

Ravishing, emerald-eyed Heather Devereux set sail for France to marry the Comte de Beaulieu, a man she'd never seen. But a band of Arab pirates hijacked the ship bringing the beautiful young Englishwoman as prize to their notorious Ottoman prince. Defiant, innocent Heather found herself the captive of Khalid Beg, a fiercely bold warrior who made her his slave --- and thought he could bend her to his will ...

HIS EMBATTLED HEART

He was called the "Sultan's Beast" feared by all but this courageous beauty who challenged him as none had ever dared before. She would be his instrument of revenge on the hated Comte de Beaulieu. But Khalid Beg could not give up his English "wildflower". He would give her luxury beyond her wildest dreams, tenderness, passion. Yet even as Heather found heaven in his arms, Khalid knew she would never be his until he gave her the one thing she most ardently desired ...