Brogue all over the place, ye ken? ( )

An English Bride in Scotland
4 Stars

Raised at a convent to be a nun, Annabel Withram returns home to marry a stranger after his original betrothed, her sister, elopes with the stable master's boy. With no training in how to be a wife or manage a home, Annabel fears for her future. After years spent consolidating his authority over his clan, Ross MacKay, is willing to marry the English bride his father chose, and becomes even more eager once he meets his sweet, shy and lush bride. But numerous attempts to kidnap Annabel soon threaten the newlywed's happiness. Who wants her and why?

Very similar to Sand's earlier, Devil of the Highlands with the forced marriage, acclimating to life in a Scottish keep, and the danger posed by an unknown enemy. There is also a decided lack of detail on the historical time period, geography and social structures. Nevertheless, the characters, the romance, and the action are entertaining.

Ross and Annabel's romance is sexy and sweet without any silly misunderstandings or unnecessary angst. The main conflict is external to their relationship and focuses on the threat to Annabel. Kudos to Sands for keeping me guessing in this regard as the revelations were quite unexpected.

Overall, a well written and engaging romance perfect for a rainy day inside. ( )

I liked this. It was sweet, cute and funny. Add in a dash of mystery and danger and it was an enjoyable read. ( )

This was really cute. I love how Ross immediately liked Annabel for all the things she was taught to dislike about herself, and I found it interesting how Annabel found female friendships in a place seemingly dominated by men, rather than in the abbey. ( )

Some things seemed a bit too modern but it was an interesting light story. Familiar story elements, fast read.
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