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The Montgomerys and Armstrongs #1
Never Seduce a Scot
Eveline Armstrong is fiercely loved and protected by her powerful clan, but outsiders consider her “touched.” Beautiful, fey, with a level, intent gaze, she doesn’t speak. No one, not even her family, knows that she cannot hear. Content with her life of seclusion, Eveline has taught herself to read lips and allows the outside world to view her as daft. But when an arranged marriage into a rival clan makes Graeme Montgomery her husband, Eveline accepts her duty—unprepared for the delights to come. Graeme is a rugged warrior with a voice so deep and powerful that his new bride can hear it, and hands and kisses so tender and skilled that he stirs her deepest passions.
Graeme is intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.
Graeme is intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 25, 2012
About the author
Maya Banks
337 books21.2k followersMaya Banks is the #1 New York Times, #1 USA Today and international bestselling author of over 50 novels. A wife and mother of three, she lives in Texas.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 3,374 reviews
February 15, 2021
this might be my favorite historical romance ever.
we have a deaf heroine who lost her hearing after a tragic accident from a horse. she has been mute for years since her accident and kept her hearing loss a secret from her family. but now the king has ordered her to marry the Laird of her families rival clan to keep the peace. she is initially against this marriage however when she meets her soon-to-be husband she realizes that she can hear the deep tone/vibration of his voice and she instantly becomes fascinated by him
the romance in this was so sweet and i loved how fiercely these two fought to protect each other!!
we have a deaf heroine who lost her hearing after a tragic accident from a horse. she has been mute for years since her accident and kept her hearing loss a secret from her family. but now the king has ordered her to marry the Laird of her families rival clan to keep the peace. she is initially against this marriage however when she meets her soon-to-be husband she realizes that she can hear the deep tone/vibration of his voice and she instantly becomes fascinated by him
the romance in this was so sweet and i loved how fiercely these two fought to protect each other!!
February 4, 2022
i almost didnt pick this up because of the super cheesy cover, but the synopsis just couldnt keep me away. and its such a relief that this story delivered!
theres so much about this that makes it so easy to binge-read. its an enemies to lovers trope where the alpha male isnt a jerk and the girl is strong. the disability representation plays such an interesting part in the story. the atmosphere and life in the castle/with the clans is really fun to read about.
and i mean, i will admit, there were some moments when i thought to myself “oh yeah, this definitely feels like a supermarket/grocery store romance novel.” the plot is very simplistic/predictable, the dialogue is awkward at times, and the romance is, in fact, pretty cheesy.
but i was still very entertained by it all. this is a light, easy read that will transport you to the highlands of medieval scotland and have you rooting for two star-crossed lovers.
↠ 3.5 stars
theres so much about this that makes it so easy to binge-read. its an enemies to lovers trope where the alpha male isnt a jerk and the girl is strong. the disability representation plays such an interesting part in the story. the atmosphere and life in the castle/with the clans is really fun to read about.
and i mean, i will admit, there were some moments when i thought to myself “oh yeah, this definitely feels like a supermarket/grocery store romance novel.” the plot is very simplistic/predictable, the dialogue is awkward at times, and the romance is, in fact, pretty cheesy.
but i was still very entertained by it all. this is a light, easy read that will transport you to the highlands of medieval scotland and have you rooting for two star-crossed lovers.
↠ 3.5 stars
May 18, 2021
“You don’t have to be afraid here, Eveline. You never have to be afraid with me.”
How do I expect to find love in this world when men like Graeme Montgomery don’t exist?
Despite how much I shamelessly judge books by their covers, especially historical romance books, I add them to my tbr regardless. I read these types of books on my kindle for a reason, but I can't deny I believe they will become my guilty pleasure. Never Seduce a Scot was one I recently heard about, and picking it up on a whim was clearly a good choice.
What better way to end the blood feud between two rival clans than with a forced marriage? Never Seduce a Scot follows Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery as the king orders them to get married to bring peace. Eveline carries a secret not even her family knows about her, and that is that she cannot hear. She’s picked up the ability to tell what people are saying by reading their lips, but she still struggles with hearing high-pitched noises while low-pitched sounds are much easier. Graeme doesn’t know this, and neither does his clan. Everyone assumes Eveline is just different, one who cannot bear an heir and cannot fulfill her duty as a wife. But as Eveline and Graeme become closer, Graeme learns that there is more than the rumors that have spread around about Eveline, including the daftness. But as Graeme begins to cherish the only woman he has grown to love, the rivalry between both clans makes a threatening move towards them, and Graeme will have to go out of his way to make sure his wife is safe and protected.
If anyone had ever told him he’d feel so strongly about protecting someone named Armstrong, he would have laughed in their face. And yet here he sat with Tavis Armstrong’s daughter, knowing that he’d do anything at all to ensure her happiness.
The only thing I couldn’t get into this at first was the writing, but that’s really because I don’t read much HR, and it will take me a while to adjust to the writing of old English. However, this was a personal issue, and I don’t think it is something that will affect everyone's way of reading this. With that being said, considering that was the only issue I had, Never Seduce a Scot was pretty damn perfect. From the plot to the love story between Eveline and Graeme to the friendships Eveline formed with the Montgomery clan, to the sincerity between Eveline and Graeme, I was cheesing, smiling, and grinning almost the entire way through.
This is a forced marriage story, but the love between Graeme and Eveline didn’t take long to progress. I enjoyed this, and as much as I love slow-burn romance, a quick-paced love story is something I desperately need after a while. While Eveline and Graeme didn't fall in love at first sight, they were clearly attracted to each other, but there’s something about how Maya Banks described them that made me really enjoy it. Having the story told in dual POV helped tremendously because I loved hearing and knowing both Eveline and Graeme’s thoughts not only about each other but about everything and everyone else around them.
“Because you’re the most beautiful woman I’ve ever had the pleasure of looking upon.”
Eveline is one of the best heroines I’ve read about. She broke my heart, but she’s also empowering. She’s fierce and determined, small yet feisty, and will do what she can to get where she needs. While a forced marriage with someone from her sworn enemy was not what she had in mind, she knew she would be able to accomplish her mission to make her family and loved ones proud. She never let her deafness get to her, and while everyone around her in both clans thought of her as daft, she continued with her day, putting her chin up, squaring her shoulders, and not bothering to let insults get in her way.
While she was empowering, she also broke my heart a few times. Her “daftness” is looked down upon, but she’s also not welcomed nor approached by the Montgomery clan, and for a good reason. Being the daughter of the man who killed the current laird’s father’s father and suddenly roaming through their land is not what anyone would accept, but the king is the king. The sad part in this is how foolish they made her be. Eveline is not daft, and we later learn why she kept this secret, but it is clearly something the people around her define her as. She also wants to fit in the clan and is willing to do anything she can to be accepted by the women who help around. She’s given task after task, only to realize then she was making a fool of herself and only being used. However, even before this realization, Eveline was determined to show the women and everyone else that she is not the type of Montgomery everyone expects them to be. She won’t stand low and on the ground, but instead, she will raise her chin up and defend herself in any way she can, no matter the consequences.
I found her to be strong and fierce, the type of woman I love to read about. Although it’s a historical romance, Eveline is one of the strongest female leads I’ve had the honor to read about. She’s inspiring in many ways, and I hope one day many of us can look at ourselves and realize that our disability does not define us, just as she did.
She would bring no dishonor to her father or her clan. She would make her mother proud. She would not worry her brothers. She would leave this place by her choice and she’d accept her husband because it was her choice, not because it was mandated by her king.
I also found the addition of Rorie to be really well-executed, and I was happy there was someone around the Montgomery clan who didn’t let her judgment define Eveline. I found her friendship with Eveline to be beautifully developed. Rorie may have become Eveline’s friend because her brother promised her lessons from Father Drummond. Still, it is then clear that Rorie ended up liking Eveline and finding her to be amusing, actually. She became what a sister-in-law should be, but she also became her close friend. In a way, Eveline could confine in someone else other than her husband.
“Thank you,” Eveline said.
Rorie cocked her head to the side. “For what?”
“For befriending me even when it was thought I was daft and when no one else in your clan was kind.”
Love is tough to believe in when men like Graeme don’t exist anymore. Perhaps somewhere very far, far away from me, or perhaps just in my dreams, but as of now, I do not know. It is so, so comforting to me to read books with men like Graeme. Considering this is a historical romance set in Scotland, I was worried about how I always am about historical romance books. Part of it is because of the writing, but another part is the misogyny I am afraid to encounter. Although I’m not surprised about it (since I mean, it is medieval historical fiction), it’s not something I always enjoy reading about, especially when the men are very protective. While Graeme was the protective hero, I didn’t find him to break any boundaries.
I found him to be soft towards Eveline. This definitely has the “touch her and I’ll kill you” trope, which I found to be done really well. Not only was he like that towards the men, but also towards the women in his clan. He hated how unwelcoming they were towards Eveline and couldn’t accept any glare towards her. I also found him to be one of the sweetest heroes I’ve read about. I’ve mentioned before how it’s always the little things that get to me, and this book showed me again why I love them. Things such as how he washed and brushed her hair in the bath after the dungeon; how he’d always caress her cheek and hold her; how he held her on his lap after eating when she was exhausted after eating and excused himself to take her back up to the chamber; how he promised her that he would get rid of anyone who would treat her unkindly; how he put her first before anyone else.
“I want this marriage. I … value … this marriage. I value you. I was wrong to think the mindsets that are so deeply rooted could be changed in a matter of days. But I don’t want you to give up, because I’m not giving up. We will make this work and I want you to believe in me if nothing else. Your place is here. With me, at my side. I need you to believe that in your heart, for it is what is in mine.
He was sweet and loving, but he was surely protective. He worried about her constantly, but never to the point where he was behind her back every moment. He made sure she was being taken care of and fed one way or another, especially after the instances she had with the other women. I loved how he never forced her to do anything, but instead, he really just wanted her to sit there and look pretty. Eveline, being the Eveline Armstrong she is, couldn’t and wouldn’t, but he also loved that about her. He also never forced her to ride on a horse, even before learning the true story about her, and I found myself beaming at that. I love when partners understand each other and don’t cross each other’s boundaries because “they have to.” He would find other ways to approach the issue if necessary.
There wasn’t one single moment he was with Eveline where I didn’t find myself grinning and smiling like a romantic fool. He made her feel so loved and cherished, and it didn’t take long for me to fall in love with his wording choice. Not poetic in any way, but truly beautiful in its own manner.
Also, he knows he has power over the people in his clan, yet he didn’t use it as an advantage to do whatever he wanted. He didn’t compare himself to others, and he always made sure everything he did and say was well-thought-out. Although he started to put Eveline before everyone else, he also couldn’t just abandon his people, and I found his loyalty to be a very gentle part of him.
“It does not make me more of a man to belittle those under me.”
Similar to Rorie and Eveline, Graeme had his two brothers, Bowen and Teague. I couldn’t blame them for their dislike of Eveline at first, considering the history they share, but I was glad to know there was no unnecessary drama linked between them either. They supported Graeme with his decisions, and little by little, they came to like Eveline as they understood her more. Sometimes I need a book with little to no drama, and this delivered just what I needed. Eveline and Graeme's brothers never tried anything against each other, which I was thankful for. They may not have approached her kindly at first, but there was never a moment where either brother tried to make a fool of her as the women did.
Who could possibly resist a smile such as hers? Furthermore, how could anyone spend even a moment in Eveline’s presence and think she was anything like her kin? The Armstrongs were a bloodthirsty, savage lot who thought nothing of killing others to suit their purposes. Eveline was a tenderhearted lass who didn’t have a mean bone in her body.
This really was everything I needed at the moment, and possibly more. I was happy throughout most of the book and wondered how it had taken me a while to find a book as happy, sweet, and cute as this one. I had heard very little about Maya Banks and her Breatheless series, but since it is a BDSM series similar to Fifty Shades of Grey, I had no intention whatsoever to pick it up. This, however, is something I would gladly read again for the first time if I could.
August 31, 2014
After just re-reading this for about the 5th time I said to myself, "Self, why did we ony rate this 4 stars? That's ridiculous Self, this book is fucking amazing."
So 5 Stars.
Love,
Self
So 5 Stars.
Love,
Self
February 28, 2021
I had such high hopes for this one because I've heard nothing but good things, and I ended up being blown away by this romance!
Eveline had an accident and lost her hearing. In order to protect herself, she does not attempt to talk anymore and almost everyone believes her to have lost cognitive ability. Now, Eveline is being ordered to marry the son of a rival clan so that the clans can fix the animosity between them. I really loved how Graham and Eveline slowly start to fall for each other, especially with how Graham has to protect Eveline from his own clan. Eveline is just so strong and I loved her ability to hold her own, even in a clan full of her enemies and without the ability to hear. It was sweet how they fell in love and I was just swooning over how protective Graham was.
Definitely a new favorite historical romance of mine!
Eveline had an accident and lost her hearing. In order to protect herself, she does not attempt to talk anymore and almost everyone believes her to have lost cognitive ability. Now, Eveline is being ordered to marry the son of a rival clan so that the clans can fix the animosity between them. I really loved how Graham and Eveline slowly start to fall for each other, especially with how Graham has to protect Eveline from his own clan. Eveline is just so strong and I loved her ability to hold her own, even in a clan full of her enemies and without the ability to hear. It was sweet how they fell in love and I was just swooning over how protective Graham was.
Definitely a new favorite historical romance of mine!
September 14, 2020
4.5 Stars
This one was just so perfect. It had a good story, good writing and sweet characters.
It's weird but when I like a book I'm not always that good at writing a detailed review as to the reasons why.
All I can say is that I loved the characters. They were perfect. Both leads were so great and they had the sweetest relationship. Little to no angst, just the perfect amount of tension and conflict and a good character and plot development.
As far as historical romance novels go, this one was a winner.
This one was just so perfect. It had a good story, good writing and sweet characters.
It's weird but when I like a book I'm not always that good at writing a detailed review as to the reasons why.
All I can say is that I loved the characters. They were perfect. Both leads were so great and they had the sweetest relationship. Little to no angst, just the perfect amount of tension and conflict and a good character and plot development.
As far as historical romance novels go, this one was a winner.
June 6, 2020
LOVED!
This book is a romancy-romance for romance lovers!
Is it historically accurate? Probably not.
Is it realistic? For sure, no.
But was it so romantic and un-put-downable that I walked around carrying that bodice-ripping cover everywhere? YESSSSSSS!
I adored Never Seduce a Scot. I honestly barely read the blurb before buying this book at my library book sale, and I went on simply the positive reviews from my friends. #worthit.
While this book is the traditional virgin-meets-hulking-warrior/laird trope as well as the arraigned marriage trope, it was insanely readable. I have a weakness for a character with a disability, and I was instantly drawn to Eveline and liked her immediately. Her chemistry with Graeme was insane, and I died with every touch and declaration of love.
Swoon-worthy to the nth degree, a romance for when you want to read about LOVE and care less about plot and realism. Straight to my favorites list.
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October 16, 2012
Never Seduce a Scot is the first book in Maya Banks’ The Montgomerys and the Armstrongs series, and fun, sexy, entertaining tale! From beginning to end, these feuding clans made this a story filled with twists and turns, situations that were both heartbreaking and inspiring, and kept me turning page after page to see what was going to happen next.
Blurb: Eveline Armstrong is fiercely loved and protected by her powerful clan, but outsiders consider her “touched.” Beautiful, fey, with a level, intent gaze, she doesn’t speak. No one, not even her family, knows that she cannot hear. Content with her life of seclusion, Eveline has taught herself to read lips and allows the outside world to view her as daft. But when an arranged marriage into a rival clan makes Graeme Montgomery her husband, Eveline accepts her duty—unprepared for the delights to come. Graeme is a rugged warrior with a voice so deep and powerful that his new bride can hear it, and hands and kisses so tender and skilled that he stirs her deepest passions.Anyone who has read Maya Banks’ contemporaries knows that this woman can write burn up the pages sex scenes, but I wasn’t sure how she’d pull off a non-erotic story. Well, it’s an understatement to say I wasn’t disappointed and, for the record, this is one steamy read.
Graeme is intrigued by the mysterious Eveline, whose silent lips are ripe with temptation and whose bright, intelligent eyes can see into his soul. As intimacy deepens, he learns her secret. But when clan rivalries and dark deeds threaten the wife he has only begun to cherish, the Scottish warrior will move heaven and earth to save the woman who has awakened his heart to the beautiful song of a rare and magical love.
Given the nature of this story I was a tad concerned that the internal dialog would be dry, making the story drag. But I’m happy to say that Ms. Banks’ did a great job of taking inside Eveline’s mind, letting us get to know her and making her thoughts a pleasure to read! At no time did this necessary storytelling bog down the story, and for that I am very grateful!
I can’t often say that I adored the heroine as much as I did the hero but, in this case, I can. Eveline was such a strong, determined young woman who could have justifiably been whiny and bitchy, but she wasn’t. She was feisty, compassionate, loving, forgiving… a truly wonderful lady befitting her role of the Laird’s wife. And speaking of the Laird… lordy, was Graeme ever amazing. He had every right to be angry, bitter, vengeful… but he was none of those things… well, he never directed those things toward Eveline. Honest, understanding, tolerant… the kind of man a woman like Evenline deserves. They were perfectly matched and their happily ever after was hard earned and well deserved.
The bottom line: Never Seduce a Scot is a delightful, sexy story. While I would have loved to have heard a more distinctly highlander voice given to the dialog, I truly enjoyed the way this tale was told. I’m very much looking forward to reading the next installment in this series, Highlander Most Wanted.
My thanks to netgalley.com for providing me with a copy of this eARC in behalf of Ballentine Books, a division of Random House Publishing Group, in exchange for an honest review!
May 2, 2023
cute and endearing tale of star-crossed lovers with decent plot and action to keep me going. has a fierce, deaf heroine and the sweetest, most overprotective “touch her you die” hero. to put it simply, i was really into it.
(Note: Originally Read as an Audiobook in 2021, but Shelved on the “2017 Reading Challenge”)
(Note: Originally Read as an Audiobook in 2021, but Shelved on the “2017 Reading Challenge”)
November 13, 2012
ATTENTION: This is from one HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOL to other similar HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOLS--
To
HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOLS,
Do you want a story which has got-
a.Romance
b.Romance
c.Romance
Well then CONGRATULATIONS!!.You have chosen the right book.
The two most powerful clans in highlands,under King Alexander II are the Montgomerys and the Armstrongs.But unfortunately,they are sworn enemies of each other.Nothing exists between them except hatred.
Seeing no other way to stop the war between them,the King decrees that the only daughter of Laird Armstrong,Eveline will have to marry Laird Montgomery.
" 'Tis madness!"Bowen Montgomery exclaimed."He cannot tie you wee daft daughter of our most hated foe."
Laird Graeme Montgomery wants nothing to do with the Armstrongs,much less WED one!!They were responsible for his father's death and he hates them.But he has to bow down to the king's order.
"Laird Tavis Armstrong's roar could be heard throughout the keep and well into the courtyard where his men were training.
Eveline didn't hear her father,but she felt the vibrations against the stone in the floor and knew that something was amiss."
Eveline is not only lovely to look upon but also has a beautiful soul.She was betrothed to Ian McHugh three years ago.Her father had wanted the match.Ian was charming...in front of others.In reality he was a cruel jerk,a sadist.He had taunted her with promises of a brutal and abusive marriage.Her father too did not believe her, thinking it was just her maidenly fears.Scared she had fled but met with an accident.Though she narrowly escaped death,she lost her hearing,unable to hear anything except low vibrations sometimes.She also stopped speaking.Hoping to get her hearing back,she did not tell anyone of her condition and as a result people thought her to be daft.It helped her to break off her betrothal to Hugh,so she continued with the deception.Meanwhile she learned how to read lips.
This is their LOVESTORY.
This amazing lovestory depicts that NOTHING,neither hatred,nor venegeance,nor enmity, can ever hold a candle to LOVE.
Graeme to Tavis-"My love for Eveline is stronger than my hatred of you."
Damn I simply melted everytine Graeme said or did something as sweet as this!!!***sigh***
Yours sincerely,
one HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOL.
P.S-Please make sure you grab this book at the earliest moment possible.
To
HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOLS,
Do you want a story which has got-
a.Romance
b.Romance
c.Romance
Well then CONGRATULATIONS!!.You have chosen the right book.
The two most powerful clans in highlands,under King Alexander II are the Montgomerys and the Armstrongs.But unfortunately,they are sworn enemies of each other.Nothing exists between them except hatred.
Seeing no other way to stop the war between them,the King decrees that the only daughter of Laird Armstrong,Eveline will have to marry Laird Montgomery.
" 'Tis madness!"Bowen Montgomery exclaimed."He cannot tie you wee daft daughter of our most hated foe."
Laird Graeme Montgomery wants nothing to do with the Armstrongs,much less WED one!!They were responsible for his father's death and he hates them.But he has to bow down to the king's order.
"Laird Tavis Armstrong's roar could be heard throughout the keep and well into the courtyard where his men were training.
Eveline didn't hear her father,but she felt the vibrations against the stone in the floor and knew that something was amiss."
Eveline is not only lovely to look upon but also has a beautiful soul.She was betrothed to Ian McHugh three years ago.Her father had wanted the match.Ian was charming...in front of others.In reality he was a cruel jerk,a sadist.He had taunted her with promises of a brutal and abusive marriage.Her father too did not believe her, thinking it was just her maidenly fears.Scared she had fled but met with an accident.Though she narrowly escaped death,she lost her hearing,unable to hear anything except low vibrations sometimes.She also stopped speaking.Hoping to get her hearing back,she did not tell anyone of her condition and as a result people thought her to be daft.It helped her to break off her betrothal to Hugh,so she continued with the deception.Meanwhile she learned how to read lips.
This is their LOVESTORY.
This amazing lovestory depicts that NOTHING,neither hatred,nor venegeance,nor enmity, can ever hold a candle to LOVE.
Graeme to Tavis-"My love for Eveline is stronger than my hatred of you."
Damn I simply melted everytine Graeme said or did something as sweet as this!!!***sigh***
Yours sincerely,
one HOPELESSLY ROMANTIC FOOL.
P.S-Please make sure you grab this book at the earliest moment possible.
November 16, 2016
3.5 stars
Awwwww. This was just so friggin' sweet!
It wasn't perfect, it's not going down as one of my favorites, and I didn't fall in love with the characters.
But.
I have ZERO complaints. None. The guy wasn't a douchebag who did creepy sex-things to claim her, the girl wasn't pathetic or helpless, and her family wasn't a bunch of asshole who abused her.
So. Fucking. Nice.
Ok so the king sends out messengers, and tells these two badass warring clans that it's time to knock it off. And to ensure that they cut that shit out and quit attacking each other, he forces the leader of one clan to marry the daughter of the other.
If either side disobeys, it will be considered high treason.
OUCH.
It would be a pretty bad situation for both sides to start with, but it's made worse by the fact that the woman in question is...touched. Eveline fell off her horse a few years ago, and since then she's been different. The laird, Graeme, who's expected to marry her is basically going to have to give up on the idea of heirs, because everyone knows she's not all there, and he's not the kind of guy who would have sex with a woman who was mentally incapable of consenting.
But her family doesn't know that.
They're all freaking out, because all they know about him is that he's their enemy.
But wait, there's more! Turns out, Eveline's been faking it (for a good reason), and once she meets Graeme, and sees that he's not an asshole, she thinks this marriage as a way to perhaps get her life back. See, the fall didn't affect Eveline's mind, it just made her deaf. So, she...
{Insert spoilery stuff here}
But just when you think everything is going to work out, this horrible bad guy {insert more spoilery stuff happening here}, and everyone is freaking out again!
Well, of course you don't. You'll have to actually read it to find out what I'm talking about.
And you definitely should read it! Especially if you're looking for a good Kilt Romance.
Huge Thank You to Holly for pointing me in the direction of this book. It absolutely didn't disappoint!
Awwwww. This was just so friggin' sweet!
It wasn't perfect, it's not going down as one of my favorites, and I didn't fall in love with the characters.
But.
I have ZERO complaints. None. The guy wasn't a douchebag who did creepy sex-things to claim her, the girl wasn't pathetic or helpless, and her family wasn't a bunch of asshole who abused her.
So. Fucking. Nice.
Ok so the king sends out messengers, and tells these two badass warring clans that it's time to knock it off. And to ensure that they cut that shit out and quit attacking each other, he forces the leader of one clan to marry the daughter of the other.
If either side disobeys, it will be considered high treason.
OUCH.
It would be a pretty bad situation for both sides to start with, but it's made worse by the fact that the woman in question is...touched. Eveline fell off her horse a few years ago, and since then she's been different. The laird, Graeme, who's expected to marry her is basically going to have to give up on the idea of heirs, because everyone knows she's not all there, and he's not the kind of guy who would have sex with a woman who was mentally incapable of consenting.
But her family doesn't know that.
They're all freaking out, because all they know about him is that he's their enemy.
But wait, there's more! Turns out, Eveline's been faking it (for a good reason), and once she meets Graeme, and sees that he's not an asshole, she thinks this marriage as a way to perhaps get her life back. See, the fall didn't affect Eveline's mind, it just made her deaf. So, she...
{Insert spoilery stuff here}
But just when you think everything is going to work out, this horrible bad guy {insert more spoilery stuff happening here}, and everyone is freaking out again!
Well, of course you don't. You'll have to actually read it to find out what I'm talking about.
And you definitely should read it! Especially if you're looking for a good Kilt Romance.
Huge Thank You to Holly for pointing me in the direction of this book. It absolutely didn't disappoint!
January 17, 2023
•| ⊱✿⊰ |• 4,5 Stars •| ⊱✿⊰ |•
Montgomerys e Armstrongs são clãs rivais.
O rei, cansado da guerra que existe há demasiado tempo, quer paz para o território escocês, decide que Eveline Armstrong case com Graeme Montgomery.
Nenhum dos clãs aceita de bom grado esta decisão, mas se forem contra o rei, tornam-se fora da lei.
O problema é que todos consideram Eveline louca, depois de uma queda que cavalo, que a deixou surda, quando tentava fugir do iminente casamento com Ian McHugh, Eveline nunca esclareceu o equivoco, visto que o mesmo a salvou de um casamento terrível.
Eveline fica fascinada com Graeme, e ele com ela, mas existe o segredo pelo meio.
Graeme não quer aceitar a atração que sente por Eveline, sendo louca, ela não terá noção do que se passa e ele não é um monstro que se vá aproveitar da situação.
Eveline não é bem aceite pelo clã Montgomery.
Ambos terão muitas dificuldades para ultrapassar, se quiserem ser felizes juntos.
════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ═���══
Montgomerys and Armstrongs are rival clans.
The king, tired of the war that has been going on for too long, wants peace for the Scottish territory, decides to have Eveline Armstrong marry Graeme Montgomery.
None of the clans willingly accept this decision, but if they go against the king, they become outlaws.
The problem is that everyone considers Eveline crazy, after a fall from a horse, which left her deaf, when trying to escape the imminent marriage to Ian McHugh, Eveline never clarified the mistake, since it saved her from a terrible marriage.
Eveline is fascinated with Graeme, and he with her, but there is the secret in between.
Graeme doesn't want to accept the attraction he feels for Eveline, being crazy, she will have no idea what's going on and he is not a monster who will take advantage of the situation.
Eveline is not well accepted by the Montgomery clan.
Both will have a lot of difficulties to overcome if they want to be happy together.
════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════
Toda a história decorre nas terras altas da Escócia...
As paisagens...
Os castelos...
════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════
The whole story take place in the highlands of Scotland...
The landscapes...
The castles...
════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════ ⋆ ★ ⋆ ════
July 13, 2015
They thought her daft but she outsmarted them all...
This was a re-read of a favourite historical highland romance. Never Seduce a Scot tells a tale of surprising love between a couple whose families are sworn enemies. The King had demanded that a truce be struck between the feuding clans and stipulated that the Montgomery Laird marry the Armstrong Laird's daughter. Wonderful idea from a king wanting peace but with a bride thought to be daft, there is no happiness to be found for either family.
5 star reads for me are mainly determined by the feelings I get and this one had me feeling heaps. I was devastated for Eveline and the troubles and heartache she faced from her condition. She lived a lonely life with the Armstrong's and decided to not hide behind the daftness when she moved. These changes were not easy and were made harder because of the clan's hatred of her family. There were times I was blubbering like a baby at the hatred and mistreatment she faced. Her determination to be accepted was amazing. She tried to smile through it all, you just can't help but love her.
Graeme is the Laird of the Montgomery's and he takes the job very seriously. When he was shackled to a daft woman, he resigned himself to a marriage in name only. His feelings of guilt when he starts to feel lust for his wife were almost humorous. Graeme is a very controlled man who keeps his feelings close to his chest. When his clan treats Eveline badly that control slips and his displeasure is KNOWN. One of my favourite parts to the story was when we see his frustration in wanting everyone to love and accept her like he has.
This story has everything I love about historical highland romance. We have a big strong Laird who loves with his whole heart along with a strong and determined heroine. There was no unnecessary angst between the couple, most of the conflict was on the outside. There was a great connection between Graeme and Eveline and enough steamy bits to give me what I like without being OTT. All of the characters play an integral part to keep the story flowing and make you want to know more about them. Even though this was a re-read it was like I was reading it for the first time again. I was sucked in, devoured it and wanted to go back for more.
Thanks my lovelies for picking this as our book of the month.
This review and more can be found at http://edgyreviews.com/
This was a re-read of a favourite historical highland romance. Never Seduce a Scot tells a tale of surprising love between a couple whose families are sworn enemies. The King had demanded that a truce be struck between the feuding clans and stipulated that the Montgomery Laird marry the Armstrong Laird's daughter. Wonderful idea from a king wanting peace but with a bride thought to be daft, there is no happiness to be found for either family.
5 star reads for me are mainly determined by the feelings I get and this one had me feeling heaps. I was devastated for Eveline and the troubles and heartache she faced from her condition. She lived a lonely life with the Armstrong's and decided to not hide behind the daftness when she moved. These changes were not easy and were made harder because of the clan's hatred of her family. There were times I was blubbering like a baby at the hatred and mistreatment she faced. Her determination to be accepted was amazing. She tried to smile through it all, you just can't help but love her.
Graeme is the Laird of the Montgomery's and he takes the job very seriously. When he was shackled to a daft woman, he resigned himself to a marriage in name only. His feelings of guilt when he starts to feel lust for his wife were almost humorous. Graeme is a very controlled man who keeps his feelings close to his chest. When his clan treats Eveline badly that control slips and his displeasure is KNOWN. One of my favourite parts to the story was when we see his frustration in wanting everyone to love and accept her like he has.
This story has everything I love about historical highland romance. We have a big strong Laird who loves with his whole heart along with a strong and determined heroine. There was no unnecessary angst between the couple, most of the conflict was on the outside. There was a great connection between Graeme and Eveline and enough steamy bits to give me what I like without being OTT. All of the characters play an integral part to keep the story flowing and make you want to know more about them. Even though this was a re-read it was like I was reading it for the first time again. I was sucked in, devoured it and wanted to go back for more.
Thanks my lovelies for picking this as our book of the month.
This review and more can be found at http://edgyreviews.com/
June 11, 2022
He was holding in his arms the woman meant for him. Nothing would ever feel this right if he lived to be a hundred. He looked down at her, wanting to savor this moment, to commit to memory the moment he realized just how much Eveline Armstrong meant to him.
Eveline Armstrong is the only daughter of the powerful Armstrong clan. It has been rumored that the girl is daft which is no wonder why she lives a life of seclusion in her family’s land and remains unmarried. However, her unmarried status will soon change. With the King being wary of the bad blood between the Armstrong and Montgomery Clan, he ordered a marriage between Eveline and the Montgomery Laird, Graeme, to ensure peace between two of the most powerful clans. With no choice but to follow the King’s edict, Eveline and Graeme soon get married, but fitting in with the Montgomery clan isn’t easy especially when Eveline is an Armstrong and hated because of her parentage. She has won her husband’s heart, but can she win her new clan’s approval? When Eveline’s safety is threatened, Graeme will find out that he will do everything to keep the wife he cherishes to be out of harm’s way under his protection. No one, not her ex betrothed and not even his own clan will keep the two apart…not when the forced marriage blossomed into something akin to love.
Never Seduce A Scot is the first book from Maya Banks’ historical romance series, The Montgomerys and Armstrongs. This tells the story of Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery. This is the first book I’ve read from Maya Banks because I have never been particularly interested in HRs that take place in the highlands. I prefer reading about balls, soirees and scandals in London but I can’t believe I haven’t read this sooner! It was such a fun book to get lost in for hours! This was one of the more popular books in the historical romance genre and I am just mad at myself that I have never read it before now. This book made me realize a thing or two: I love reading about H and h from feuding clans who are forced to be with each other… and it has to be medieval.
It is no secret that I love sweet heroines so is it even any surprise that I ended up loving, feeling protective and rooting for Eveline from the beginning until the end? Eveline was such a sweet and determined heroine. Due to an accident, her sense of hearing was gone and yet no one, not even her own clan was aware of it. She had developed an amazing ability of reading other people’s mouths in order to make sense of the words they speak. People, even those from her own clan, thought that she was mad, daft or touched because she hasn’t spoken a single word in three years and she seems to be not quite right in the head. She didn’t have any problem with this misconception as her new condition gave her an excuse to not be married to a vile man. She was so charming! I loved her quirks and all of it. I admired her determination to be accepted by the clan she married into even when they showed her nothing but contempt. She was quick to forgive and might be a bit gullible which I think others might not like, but I think she was just a kind person who doesn’t have an ounce of judgmental bones in her body which explains why she gives people a chance even when they did her wrong once. I loved the times she stood up for herself! I was totally cheering like Yes Girl, show them who you are, do not be cowered! She was just an admirable heroine, who instead of drowning in self pity, tried to make the best out of her situation even when so many people were working against her. She was sweet and vulnerable but she was also strong and knew when to stand up for herself. She was an outstanding individual character and was an even better heroine. She was loving, eager to please and very loyal. I can’t say more but I really loved her and it was a delight getting to know this wounded soul who finally had the happily ever after she very much deserved.
Graeme Montgomery was such a sweet, gentle, and loving hero. Of course I loved him! He was a powerful chieftain rivaled only by the Armstrong chieftain. Their families had this decades old feud and what really sealed the deal was when one of the Armstrong men killed his father. He was bent on revenge because he loved his father and that’s just the way it was with these powerful clans it seems. From the beginning, I was hooked on his character and was eagerly waiting to see how he would treat the unwanted bride that was foisted on him. I loved the fact that he didn’t want to marry her because she was an Armstrong. He had some unkind thoughts and such but was shocked when he saw how beautiful his bride was. Okay but all of that is irrelevant. I will get to the point and say why I love him. First, he has big dick energy! Oh this man had me smiling and giggling and made me wanna kick my feet in the air whenever he did things to protect Eveline. I love how even though Eveline wasn’t his choice of bride, he wasn’t cruel to her even when he first met her. He was always kind and understanding. He was this powerful warrior, gruff, alpha type of hero and yet he wasn’t rude nor overbearing just to prove his superiority. From the beginning, he had been nice to his wife and treated her with the utmost respect. Like I said, he was very sweet, gentle, loving and isn’t scared to show his affection for the heroine. I loved how he didn’t let his clan’s disrespect to his wife slide and how he took extreme measures to punish them for their ill intentions towards Eveline. He may have been a bit lenient at first because he knew an Armstrong wouldn’t be eagerly accepted into the fold but he wanted them to respect her. It was super satisfying to see him snap and just tell everyone off. He was so overprotective in the best way and he made this book very enjoyable. I love reading about obviously besotted heroes who will do everything to ensure the heroine is happy, safe and protected. A most swoon-worthy man! I think he might be one of the best heroes I’ve had the pleasure to read about. I have a weakness for devoted heroes so it is not a surprise that I loved Graeme, I dare say.
I’ve read very few medieval/ highlander romance but this book made me want to deep dive and read more. I want something like this again! I realized that I enjoy it immensely when the heroine and hero come from feuding clans and yet they’re somehow forced to marry each other for some reasons. It is extremely fun to see how both would cope with the situation and how they’d treat each other. Of course, what I loved most is when these characters realized they’re absolute goners for each other. There’s something about romance books wherein the characters fall in love with the people they least expect.
From the first chapter I was hooked. I knew I had to finish reading it so I did and I don’t regret it one bit. The only thing I regret is not reading this book earlier. But as a mood reader, I think the book had an advantage of being highly enjoyed by me because the mood was calling for something like this book: Sweet characters with good romance and a bit of drama but nothing too frustrating.
I honestly can’t think of anything that I disliked about the book. I think at times it can be a bit cheesy but it’s honestly so minor that I don’t mind. It had some very beautifully written passages too that I just had to appreciate before I proceeded reading. This book made me feel so single and now I want a brawny Scotsman who is gentle, overprotective and will do anything for me. I loved how both h and H didn’t try to fight their feelings for each other and was okay with the realization that they loved and valued each other. Also, it was the hero who realized his love for the h and said it first! A good man, a very good man paired with an equally good woman. I love them!
I think after this one, I need to read more of Maya Banks’ books set during the medieval time. I liked the author’s writing. I thought it was engaging. She knew how to keep readers hooked, or well, at least me and a thousand others. This might be boring for some so I think it really depends on your mood or what you’re into as a reader. Personally, I liked the fact that there wasn't any animosity between the h and H even if they were from feuding clans and that very early on they were attracted to each other. I think the clan drama (Eveline trying to fit in) added the much needed excitement and wasn’t too stressful so it was good. I only wish there was an epilogue set years later but I’ll take what I got. Overall, it was a good and delightful read. I loved the couple so I’m giving this book five stars.
Some Quotes:
This was right. So very right, and he knew he’d never feel such again. There would never be another woman for him. She was his. His wife. He loved her.
He wanted to be inside her so deeply that they could never be separated, so that when they were apart, she would remember this moment when they were inseparable.
“Supporting me means you support my wife and your mistress. Nothing that any of you have done could be construed as support of Eveline. Best you keep in mind that any slight to her is a slight to me. Any abuse to her is abuse to me. Any insult to her is an insult to me.”
She was… She was a ray of sunshine on the dreariest of days. She filled a hole he hadn’t even thought occupied his heart.
And suddenly she knew what it was he said. Nay, she hadn’t heard the words, but she’d felt them. In her heart. In her very soul.
Eveline Armstrong is the only daughter of the powerful Armstrong clan. It has been rumored that the girl is daft which is no wonder why she lives a life of seclusion in her family’s land and remains unmarried. However, her unmarried status will soon change. With the King being wary of the bad blood between the Armstrong and Montgomery Clan, he ordered a marriage between Eveline and the Montgomery Laird, Graeme, to ensure peace between two of the most powerful clans. With no choice but to follow the King’s edict, Eveline and Graeme soon get married, but fitting in with the Montgomery clan isn’t easy especially when Eveline is an Armstrong and hated because of her parentage. She has won her husband’s heart, but can she win her new clan’s approval? When Eveline’s safety is threatened, Graeme will find out that he will do everything to keep the wife he cherishes to be out of harm’s way under his protection. No one, not her ex betrothed and not even his own clan will keep the two apart…not when the forced marriage blossomed into something akin to love.
Never Seduce A Scot is the first book from Maya Banks’ historical romance series, The Montgomerys and Armstrongs. This tells the story of Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery. This is the first book I’ve read from Maya Banks because I have never been particularly interested in HRs that take place in the highlands. I prefer reading about balls, soirees and scandals in London but I can’t believe I haven’t read this sooner! It was such a fun book to get lost in for hours! This was one of the more popular books in the historical romance genre and I am just mad at myself that I have never read it before now. This book made me realize a thing or two: I love reading about H and h from feuding clans who are forced to be with each other… and it has to be medieval.
It is no secret that I love sweet heroines so is it even any surprise that I ended up loving, feeling protective and rooting for Eveline from the beginning until the end? Eveline was such a sweet and determined heroine. Due to an accident, her sense of hearing was gone and yet no one, not even her own clan was aware of it. She had developed an amazing ability of reading other people’s mouths in order to make sense of the words they speak. People, even those from her own clan, thought that she was mad, daft or touched because she hasn’t spoken a single word in three years and she seems to be not quite right in the head. She didn’t have any problem with this misconception as her new condition gave her an excuse to not be married to a vile man. She was so charming! I loved her quirks and all of it. I admired her determination to be accepted by the clan she married into even when they showed her nothing but contempt. She was quick to forgive and might be a bit gullible which I think others might not like, but I think she was just a kind person who doesn’t have an ounce of judgmental bones in her body which explains why she gives people a chance even when they did her wrong once. I loved the times she stood up for herself! I was totally cheering like Yes Girl, show them who you are, do not be cowered! She was just an admirable heroine, who instead of drowning in self pity, tried to make the best out of her situation even when so many people were working against her. She was sweet and vulnerable but she was also strong and knew when to stand up for herself. She was an outstanding individual character and was an even better heroine. She was loving, eager to please and very loyal. I can’t say more but I really loved her and it was a delight getting to know this wounded soul who finally had the happily ever after she very much deserved.
Graeme Montgomery was such a sweet, gentle, and loving hero. Of course I loved him! He was a powerful chieftain rivaled only by the Armstrong chieftain. Their families had this decades old feud and what really sealed the deal was when one of the Armstrong men killed his father. He was bent on revenge because he loved his father and that’s just the way it was with these powerful clans it seems. From the beginning, I was hooked on his character and was eagerly waiting to see how he would treat the unwanted bride that was foisted on him. I loved the fact that he didn’t want to marry her because she was an Armstrong. He had some unkind thoughts and such but was shocked when he saw how beautiful his bride was. Okay but all of that is irrelevant. I will get to the point and say why I love him. First, he has big dick energy! Oh this man had me smiling and giggling and made me wanna kick my feet in the air whenever he did things to protect Eveline. I love how even though Eveline wasn’t his choice of bride, he wasn’t cruel to her even when he first met her. He was always kind and understanding. He was this powerful warrior, gruff, alpha type of hero and yet he wasn’t rude nor overbearing just to prove his superiority. From the beginning, he had been nice to his wife and treated her with the utmost respect. Like I said, he was very sweet, gentle, loving and isn’t scared to show his affection for the heroine. I loved how he didn’t let his clan’s disrespect to his wife slide and how he took extreme measures to punish them for their ill intentions towards Eveline. He may have been a bit lenient at first because he knew an Armstrong wouldn’t be eagerly accepted into the fold but he wanted them to respect her. It was super satisfying to see him snap and just tell everyone off. He was so overprotective in the best way and he made this book very enjoyable. I love reading about obviously besotted heroes who will do everything to ensure the heroine is happy, safe and protected. A most swoon-worthy man! I think he might be one of the best heroes I’ve had the pleasure to read about. I have a weakness for devoted heroes so it is not a surprise that I loved Graeme, I dare say.
I’ve read very few medieval/ highlander romance but this book made me want to deep dive and read more. I want something like this again! I realized that I enjoy it immensely when the heroine and hero come from feuding clans and yet they’re somehow forced to marry each other for some reasons. It is extremely fun to see how both would cope with the situation and how they’d treat each other. Of course, what I loved most is when these characters realized they’re absolute goners for each other. There’s something about romance books wherein the characters fall in love with the people they least expect.
From the first chapter I was hooked. I knew I had to finish reading it so I did and I don’t regret it one bit. The only thing I regret is not reading this book earlier. But as a mood reader, I think the book had an advantage of being highly enjoyed by me because the mood was calling for something like this book: Sweet characters with good romance and a bit of drama but nothing too frustrating.
I honestly can’t think of anything that I disliked about the book. I think at times it can be a bit cheesy but it’s honestly so minor that I don’t mind. It had some very beautifully written passages too that I just had to appreciate before I proceeded reading. This book made me feel so single and now I want a brawny Scotsman who is gentle, overprotective and will do anything for me. I loved how both h and H didn’t try to fight their feelings for each other and was okay with the realization that they loved and valued each other. Also, it was the hero who realized his love for the h and said it first! A good man, a very good man paired with an equally good woman. I love them!
I think after this one, I need to read more of Maya Banks’ books set during the medieval time. I liked the author’s writing. I thought it was engaging. She knew how to keep readers hooked, or well, at least me and a thousand others. This might be boring for some so I think it really depends on your mood or what you’re into as a reader. Personally, I liked the fact that there wasn't any animosity between the h and H even if they were from feuding clans and that very early on they were attracted to each other. I think the clan drama (Eveline trying to fit in) added the much needed excitement and wasn’t too stressful so it was good. I only wish there was an epilogue set years later but I’ll take what I got. Overall, it was a good and delightful read. I loved the couple so I’m giving this book five stars.
Some Quotes:
This was right. So very right, and he knew he’d never feel such again. There would never be another woman for him. She was his. His wife. He loved her.
He wanted to be inside her so deeply that they could never be separated, so that when they were apart, she would remember this moment when they were inseparable.
“Supporting me means you support my wife and your mistress. Nothing that any of you have done could be construed as support of Eveline. Best you keep in mind that any slight to her is a slight to me. Any abuse to her is abuse to me. Any insult to her is an insult to me.”
She was… She was a ray of sunshine on the dreariest of days. She filled a hole he hadn’t even thought occupied his heart.
And suddenly she knew what it was he said. Nay, she hadn’t heard the words, but she’d felt them. In her heart. In her very soul.
September 19, 2013
4.5 AYE LASS STARS.
At the persistence of my gorgeous friend (The beautiful inside and out Anna Champion) and the encouragement of fabulous five star reviews I finally found myself one clicking this popular historical romance and promptly falling happily head over heels. Readers If you want to be swept off your feet then I would suggest that you indulge yourself in a book from this romance genre and specifically if like me you are late to the party and haven't already one clicked this diamond prepare for an invasion of the book butterflies and a book that brings home the book enjoyment factor. Welcome to 'Never seduce a scot' and a romance that goes straight for the heart ...
What's it all about
After a royal decree is made by the king of Scotland a fierce rivalry must come to find peace. The two most powerful clans in the kingdom have always been at war but after the king demands that a marriage is to take place between Laird Armstrong's beloved daughter and Laird Montgomery the feuding Clan's must come together or face war with the king, the union between the two is not received kindly by all involved and so begins the story of Eveline and Graeme. Eveline Armstrong has spent the last two years deceiving her family that an accident on horseback has affected her long term, ridiculed by some as less than normal, Eveline made the choice to protect herself from an less than desirable match of marriage but when the king demands that she forges another union she could not even have imagined what would become of when she meets the powerful but gentlemanly Graeme Montgomery. As this duo start to come to grips with their conflicting emotions regarding loyalty to their blood and lifelong rivalry nothing can come as more than a shock when feelings start to grow. But will this couple make the long rocky Road to happiness when everything says they shouldn't?
What did I love?
This story reminded me of why I love, love. The romance was extraordinary, the story was original and the connection between the couple was heart-in-mouth, I'm- falling-helplessly-in-love beautiful. Of course I was swooning over the delightful characters there is nothing more exciting than two characters falling helplessly in love when everything should stand against them. Eveline stole my heart straight away she was brave, intelligent and has a streak of cheeky that made me smile. Graeme was the most gentlemanly alpha I've ever read about, this hero is wise, loving and ever so delicious, I fell in love with this duo and believed the story the author was portraying about their love. It was a nice break to escape into a book of yesteryear it made my reading experience ever so dreamy, I could not have wanted more from this historical romance and I know this will be the first of many of this genre that I will happily devour.
Why not five?
I don't want to sound negative here because I genuinely enjoyed this book however there were points in the story that fell somewhat flat for me, where I felt I was just reading instead of involved with what was going on, but there is no mistaking that this is a delightful story and I am fully convinced I will be continuing with the series.
Final thoughts ...
Do you love romance? yummy hero's? Delightful heroines? Stories that made you swoon? Then this will be a hit for you, and as for those that dismiss historical romance, I suggest you give this one a whirl ... Go grab it readers. Enjoy, kisses.
At the persistence of my gorgeous friend (The beautiful inside and out Anna Champion) and the encouragement of fabulous five star reviews I finally found myself one clicking this popular historical romance and promptly falling happily head over heels. Readers If you want to be swept off your feet then I would suggest that you indulge yourself in a book from this romance genre and specifically if like me you are late to the party and haven't already one clicked this diamond prepare for an invasion of the book butterflies and a book that brings home the book enjoyment factor. Welcome to 'Never seduce a scot' and a romance that goes straight for the heart ...
What's it all about
After a royal decree is made by the king of Scotland a fierce rivalry must come to find peace. The two most powerful clans in the kingdom have always been at war but after the king demands that a marriage is to take place between Laird Armstrong's beloved daughter and Laird Montgomery the feuding Clan's must come together or face war with the king, the union between the two is not received kindly by all involved and so begins the story of Eveline and Graeme. Eveline Armstrong has spent the last two years deceiving her family that an accident on horseback has affected her long term, ridiculed by some as less than normal, Eveline made the choice to protect herself from an less than desirable match of marriage but when the king demands that she forges another union she could not even have imagined what would become of when she meets the powerful but gentlemanly Graeme Montgomery. As this duo start to come to grips with their conflicting emotions regarding loyalty to their blood and lifelong rivalry nothing can come as more than a shock when feelings start to grow. But will this couple make the long rocky Road to happiness when everything says they shouldn't?
What did I love?
This story reminded me of why I love, love. The romance was extraordinary, the story was original and the connection between the couple was heart-in-mouth, I'm- falling-helplessly-in-love beautiful. Of course I was swooning over the delightful characters there is nothing more exciting than two characters falling helplessly in love when everything should stand against them. Eveline stole my heart straight away she was brave, intelligent and has a streak of cheeky that made me smile. Graeme was the most gentlemanly alpha I've ever read about, this hero is wise, loving and ever so delicious, I fell in love with this duo and believed the story the author was portraying about their love. It was a nice break to escape into a book of yesteryear it made my reading experience ever so dreamy, I could not have wanted more from this historical romance and I know this will be the first of many of this genre that I will happily devour.
Why not five?
I don't want to sound negative here because I genuinely enjoyed this book however there were points in the story that fell somewhat flat for me, where I felt I was just reading instead of involved with what was going on, but there is no mistaking that this is a delightful story and I am fully convinced I will be continuing with the series.
Final thoughts ...
Do you love romance? yummy hero's? Delightful heroines? Stories that made you swoon? Then this will be a hit for you, and as for those that dismiss historical romance, I suggest you give this one a whirl ... Go grab it readers. Enjoy, kisses.
October 23, 2022
Reread for a Patron in Oct 2022
I just love these two so much. It actually hurts.
6 stars
2 on the spice scale
***********************
Reread for 2021 Favorites.
Just as delightful as ever.
********************************
What is this majestic book?! OMG!!!!!
.
These two were stinking adorable!!!! I wept with it.
.
6/5 Stars
I just love these two so much. It actually hurts.
6 stars
2 on the spice scale
***********************
Reread for 2021 Favorites.
Just as delightful as ever.
********************************
What is this majestic book?! OMG!!!!!
.
These two were stinking adorable!!!! I wept with it.
.
6/5 Stars
February 11, 2013
3.5 stars. I'm confused. I'm thoroughly confused. Is this the same author who wrote about a weak-willed woman being repeatedly *cough* utilized by 3 men at the same time in every single possible place there is to utilize a woman? I never would have known that this book came from the same person who wrote the other book if I'd gone into this read blindly. The writing style was completely different.
Okay, I'm not going to lie. Colters' Woman was not the absolute worst book I've ever read, for what it was. That book was fluff erotica - very enticing in parts while completely ridiculous in others (and tiring - how this woman was able to keep up, I'll never know). However, there was nothing about Colters' which made it stand out for me either. The woman was completely downtrodden, the men were interchangeable, and the story was practically nonexistent.
Needless to say, my expectations were pretty low for my first highlander read from this author. So you can only imagine my surprise when I found myself enjoying Never Seduce a Scot.
Well, who knew I'd end up liking this? Even though the story didn't have as much of the sexy highlander brogue that I love, it was still a touching little read (and not the kind of touching that went on in Colters').
Eveline is a woman who had lost her hearing in an accident involving a horse. Even though Eveline taught herself how to read lips and could understand what people were saying around her, she pretended to be 'daft' and refused to speak in order to avoid being forced into a marriage to a man whom she considered abusive. Instead, she ended up being forced into a 'political' marriage to the head of an enemy clan.
Graeme is the man who feels guiltily drawn to his new bride. He doesn't want to believe she is daft, but he does draw the line at trying to make any advances on his wife because he isn't sure where her mental capacity is. He honestly doesn't want to take advantage, even though his instinct is to protect and care for this woman who was dropped into his life and he finds himself attracted to her beauty. I was happily amazed to find that this big, burly, clan leader was really a softie at heart. His attitude was refreshing and different from the general alpha male. Everything about this man showed his strength of character and ability to treat others with respect and kindness. He was a wonderful character.
It's not often that you get to read stories in which one of the main characters is disabled in some form and I loved that the author used her real life experiences with her own husband's hearing loss as inspiration for this story. Because Banks drew from her personal knowledge, the story read as authentic and not forced.
Overall, this was a beautiful love story and I loved how moving the connection was between Eveline and Graeme. The only fault I could find with the book, which made me knock off half a rating point, is that it ran a little too long. There might have been a benefit from cutting out a few needless scenes. Even so, I'm glad that I gave Never Seduce a Scot a fair chance. I ended up finding a nice little gem in the historical romance genre.
Okay, I'm not going to lie. Colters' Woman was not the absolute worst book I've ever read, for what it was. That book was fluff erotica - very enticing in parts while completely ridiculous in others (and tiring - how this woman was able to keep up, I'll never know). However, there was nothing about Colters' which made it stand out for me either. The woman was completely downtrodden, the men were interchangeable, and the story was practically nonexistent.
Needless to say, my expectations were pretty low for my first highlander read from this author. So you can only imagine my surprise when I found myself enjoying Never Seduce a Scot.
Well, who knew I'd end up liking this? Even though the story didn't have as much of the sexy highlander brogue that I love, it was still a touching little read (and not the kind of touching that went on in Colters').
Eveline is a woman who had lost her hearing in an accident involving a horse. Even though Eveline taught herself how to read lips and could understand what people were saying around her, she pretended to be 'daft' and refused to speak in order to avoid being forced into a marriage to a man whom she considered abusive. Instead, she ended up being forced into a 'political' marriage to the head of an enemy clan.
Graeme is the man who feels guiltily drawn to his new bride. He doesn't want to believe she is daft, but he does draw the line at trying to make any advances on his wife because he isn't sure where her mental capacity is. He honestly doesn't want to take advantage, even though his instinct is to protect and care for this woman who was dropped into his life and he finds himself attracted to her beauty. I was happily amazed to find that this big, burly, clan leader was really a softie at heart. His attitude was refreshing and different from the general alpha male. Everything about this man showed his strength of character and ability to treat others with respect and kindness. He was a wonderful character.
To his surprise, she turned just enough to kiss the inside of his hand. It was such a simple thing and yet he felt it all the way to his soul.
It's not often that you get to read stories in which one of the main characters is disabled in some form and I loved that the author used her real life experiences with her own husband's hearing loss as inspiration for this story. Because Banks drew from her personal knowledge, the story read as authentic and not forced.
Overall, this was a beautiful love story and I loved how moving the connection was between Eveline and Graeme. The only fault I could find with the book, which made me knock off half a rating point, is that it ran a little too long. There might have been a benefit from cutting out a few needless scenes. Even so, I'm glad that I gave Never Seduce a Scot a fair chance. I ended up finding a nice little gem in the historical romance genre.
"I love you, Evangeline," he whispered, though he knew she could not hear him. "Somehow, I'll make you hear me and you'll know that I love you as fiercely as it's possible for a man to love a woman."
February 22, 2017
So freaking good!
This HR is about two rival clans in ye old Scotland that are forced by the king to join one of the chieftains to the other chieftain's daughter in marriage. The hope is that this will stop all of the crazy killing between the clans. Neither clan is happy about it at all.
These were some unhappy
But then, oh it was so awesome! The hero, Graem, is a total sweetie pie. Yes, an alpha sweetie pie, but still. And, the heroine, Eveline, is so amazing. Ugh! The cute-o-meter goes through the roof! I think the damn thing broke!
Yes, this much cuteness!
And, best of all: no Too Stupid To Live moments. No idiotic reasons they have to break-up and get back together. The sex was actually reasonable. He even waited a few days after she lost her virginity to give her time to heal, like a considerate guy. Even the bad guy, who could have been considered a bit over the top, had a good plan as to why he does what he does. It made sense.
Weird!
I actually have no complaints about anything that happened in this book. NONE!
My only complaint is that I don't get to complain. It was just too awesome.
I guess I'll always have that
March 3, 2016
He liked kissing. Many a man didn't have much patience for it. His men jested about kissing being a waste of time and was only for wooing the unwilling lasses. But if a lass was willing, they'd much rather move to the more rudimentary elements of coupling.
But to Graeme, kissing was almost as intimate as the act of lovemaking itself. It wasn't something to be hurried or to be offered as a token to woo a reluctant lass. It was an expression of regard.
Welp, there you have it. *Carmen slams the book shut.* Now you know why this is getting 5 romance stars from me. Okay, bye.
...
Oh, you're still here? You want more details about the book? A hero who loves kissing isn't enough for you? Okay.
This is an AMAZING romance book that is going to make your heart explode inside your chest. For tons of reasons: cuteness, sweetness, betrayal, shock, outrage, and romance. Yay!
The Armstrongs and the Montgomerys hate each other. Their clans have been feuding for generations. So the king orders a marriage to unite the two clans.
Eveline Armstrong is touched. Daft. Not right in the head. Her clan is outraged at the thought of her being forced into a marriage with the hated laird Graeme Montgomery. Anyone can see that she is unfit to carry out her wifely duties. Why, she hasn't spoken a single word in three years, not since "the accident."
Graeme is not pleased with the arrangement, either. Getting married to a woman who is afflicted means that he will be unable to consummate the marriage and unable to have any heirs. And when he finds himself very attracted to the tiny blonde lass, he is ashamed. Only a slime would think lustful thoughts about a dimwit. And Eveline is most certainly addled... Isn't she?
Having faked mental problems for three years, Eveline is tired of pretending that she's touched. In fact, nothing is wrong with her brain at all. She's simply deaf. But in a desperate move to avoid marriage to a wife-beating rapist piece of shit, she used her deafness as a tool to fake intellectual disability. Now, forced by marriage into a clan who hates her family, can she confess the truth and find an ally in her kind and patient husband?
...
This book is so cute and delicious and it also will make your heart explode with feelings. o.O
GRAEME: Sweet, kind, patient, loves kissing (!!!!!). He is so honorable. Sometimes historical heroes can be forceful, possessive, and a bit brutal, so I'm happy to report that Graeme is a complete mensch. Your heart will be melting from the cuteness. He acts so correct, it is so attractive, OMG. Patient men who love kissing are the best in life. O.O I was excited. He's so good with consent. He has a really deep voice and Eveline loves it because she can feel the vibrations from his voice. I'm with you, girl. I could listen to Vin Diesel or Michael Clarke Duncan or Michael Dorn or James Earl Jones or Ving Rhames read me the phone book and it would be exciting. ;) For serious. What else? Oh yeah. As something VERY RARE in a historical romance, Graeme is NOT a mujeriego. NOT a man who has slept with 500 women. He's actually just slept with about 4 or 5. Wow. That is so amazing for this genre you have no idea.
EVELINE: Sweet, kind, good-hearted, earnest, hard-working, sincere, smart, and brave. My heart was being torn out every time someone was mean to her because she was deaf or because they thought she was daft. She was always trying to do the right thing and she was so brave. Aw!
There's bad guys and betrayal and some bad stuff happens (but no rape, thank you, Banks). This book will really put you through the wringer.
I loved every minute of this book.
I highly recommend this if you like historical romance, and/or specifically Highlander romance.
3 REAL STARS, 5 ROMANCE STARS - Highest romance recommendation!!!
P.S. Why is this available in Portuguese and NOT Spanish!?!!?!?!? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
But to Graeme, kissing was almost as intimate as the act of lovemaking itself. It wasn't something to be hurried or to be offered as a token to woo a reluctant lass. It was an expression of regard.
Welp, there you have it. *Carmen slams the book shut.* Now you know why this is getting 5 romance stars from me. Okay, bye.
...
Oh, you're still here? You want more details about the book? A hero who loves kissing isn't enough for you? Okay.
This is an AMAZING romance book that is going to make your heart explode inside your chest. For tons of reasons: cuteness, sweetness, betrayal, shock, outrage, and romance. Yay!
The Armstrongs and the Montgomerys hate each other. Their clans have been feuding for generations. So the king orders a marriage to unite the two clans.
Eveline Armstrong is touched. Daft. Not right in the head. Her clan is outraged at the thought of her being forced into a marriage with the hated laird Graeme Montgomery. Anyone can see that she is unfit to carry out her wifely duties. Why, she hasn't spoken a single word in three years, not since "the accident."
Graeme is not pleased with the arrangement, either. Getting married to a woman who is afflicted means that he will be unable to consummate the marriage and unable to have any heirs. And when he finds himself very attracted to the tiny blonde lass, he is ashamed. Only a slime would think lustful thoughts about a dimwit. And Eveline is most certainly addled... Isn't she?
Having faked mental problems for three years, Eveline is tired of pretending that she's touched. In fact, nothing is wrong with her brain at all. She's simply deaf. But in a desperate move to avoid marriage to a wife-beating rapist piece of shit, she used her deafness as a tool to fake intellectual disability. Now, forced by marriage into a clan who hates her family, can she confess the truth and find an ally in her kind and patient husband?
...
This book is so cute and delicious and it also will make your heart explode with feelings. o.O
GRAEME: Sweet, kind, patient, loves kissing (!!!!!). He is so honorable. Sometimes historical heroes can be forceful, possessive, and a bit brutal, so I'm happy to report that Graeme is a complete mensch. Your heart will be melting from the cuteness. He acts so correct, it is so attractive, OMG. Patient men who love kissing are the best in life. O.O I was excited. He's so good with consent. He has a really deep voice and Eveline loves it because she can feel the vibrations from his voice. I'm with you, girl. I could listen to Vin Diesel or Michael Clarke Duncan or Michael Dorn or James Earl Jones or Ving Rhames read me the phone book and it would be exciting. ;) For serious. What else? Oh yeah. As something VERY RARE in a historical romance, Graeme is NOT a mujeriego. NOT a man who has slept with 500 women. He's actually just slept with about 4 or 5. Wow. That is so amazing for this genre you have no idea.
EVELINE: Sweet, kind, good-hearted, earnest, hard-working, sincere, smart, and brave. My heart was being torn out every time someone was mean to her because she was deaf or because they thought she was daft. She was always trying to do the right thing and she was so brave. Aw!
There's bad guys and betrayal and some bad stuff happens (but no rape, thank you, Banks). This book will really put you through the wringer.
I loved every minute of this book.
I highly recommend this if you like historical romance, and/or specifically Highlander romance.
3 REAL STARS, 5 ROMANCE STARS - Highest romance recommendation!!!
P.S. Why is this available in Portuguese and NOT Spanish!?!!?!?!? Grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr
August 12, 2017
3 Stars
Overall Opinion: This wasn't quite as good as I thought it'd be. I enjoyed it, but I just thought it was ok. The H was awesome, but I think I've been conditioned to like a different kind of H as he seemed a little too sweet for my liking. I'm sure I'm a minority in that! The ending felt a little lackluster to me too. Many people loved this, so it could just be me 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eveline and Graeme's story. They are both from enemy clans and the King has ordered them to get married to force a blood treaty and cause peace in their area. Eveline had an accident years before and her family believes that she has never fully recovered and is "daft", so they are especially upset about the fact that she is to marry the enemy chieftain and leave to live on their territory. Graeme is sympathetic to Eveline, and they connect instantly regardless of the fact that their families have been enemies for many years. The more time they spend together, the stronger they feel for one another. There is some clan drama, some ex suitor drama, a few sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing mainly on Eveline and Graeme in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The end felt a little abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They both felt an instant connection, and it didn't take long for them to feel strongly for each other.
H rating: 4 stars. Graeme. I liked him, but he was a little too beta for my preferences. He was so sweet and compassionate towards the h from the start.
h rating: 3 stars. Eveline. I though she was ok. I was disappointed in how she didn't trust her family, but I also understood that she was in a bad position.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Decent. They have some decent tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the storyline.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had ok closure, but I would've liked a farther glimpse into their future. I would still call it a HEA.
How I got it: I got it on loan through my public library and Amazon.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Overall Opinion: This wasn't quite as good as I thought it'd be. I enjoyed it, but I just thought it was ok. The H was awesome, but I think I've been conditioned to like a different kind of H as he seemed a little too sweet for my liking. I'm sure I'm a minority in that! The ending felt a little lackluster to me too. Many people loved this, so it could just be me 🤷🏻♀️
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Eveline and Graeme's story. They are both from enemy clans and the King has ordered them to get married to force a blood treaty and cause peace in their area. Eveline had an accident years before and her family believes that she has never fully recovered and is "daft", so they are especially upset about the fact that she is to marry the enemy chieftain and leave to live on their territory. Graeme is sympathetic to Eveline, and they connect instantly regardless of the fact that their families have been enemies for many years. The more time they spend together, the stronger they feel for one another. There is some clan drama, some ex suitor drama, a few sexy times, and some sweet moments...and they get a HEA ending.
POV: This alternated between focusing mainly on Eveline and Graeme in 3rd person narrative.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. The end felt a little abrupt, but otherwise I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: Kind of. They both felt an instant connection, and it didn't take long for them to feel strongly for each other.
H rating: 4 stars. Graeme. I liked him, but he was a little too beta for my preferences. He was so sweet and compassionate towards the h from the start.
h rating: 3 stars. Eveline. I though she was ok. I was disappointed in how she didn't trust her family, but I also understood that she was in a bad position.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Not really
Heat level: Decent. They have some decent tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the storyline.
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW/OM drama: Yes
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This had ok closure, but I would've liked a farther glimpse into their future. I would still call it a HEA.
How I got it: I got it on loan through my public library and Amazon.
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
October 13, 2012
Maya Banks is quickly becoming my favorite author of Highlander/Medieval romances. NEVER SEDUCE A SCOT was another winner. It was a sexy, sweet highlander romance between enemy clans. While it was a bit predictable in places, I really didn’t care. The story kept me glued, the characters were endearing, and the romance was swoon worthy.
Forced to marry by the king’s proclamation, Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery meet just one day before their own wedding. Graeme will respect the king’s wishes, but he has no intention of making Eveline a wife in truth. He will not have the enemy’s daughter be the mother of his children.
Shortly after they wed, he realizes the rumors about her being ‘touched’ in the head were a lie. She is deaf, not stupid. She can read lips and communicate just fine. And she has a sweet side that Graeme is very attracted to.
His clan has trouble accepting his new bride, now his wife in truth. Someone is also trying to start a war between the Armstrong and Montgomery clans, which puts both of their lives at risk.
There was some great action toward the end, but for most of the book the story is focused on Graeme and Eveline getting to know each other. We learn much about his clan, and meet his brothers (who will have their own stories too)! It was a sweet romance. Graeme was not a dark alpha type hero you normally read about it Highlander/Medieval romances.
This was a great start to a new series. It was a bit predictable, but I still recommend it for a fun read. I will definitely read the next, can’t wait. If you like sexy highlander romances, but want a book where the hero isn’t a brooding alpha type, this is a great choice.
Forced to marry by the king’s proclamation, Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery meet just one day before their own wedding. Graeme will respect the king’s wishes, but he has no intention of making Eveline a wife in truth. He will not have the enemy’s daughter be the mother of his children.
Shortly after they wed, he realizes the rumors about her being ‘touched’ in the head were a lie. She is deaf, not stupid. She can read lips and communicate just fine. And she has a sweet side that Graeme is very attracted to.
His clan has trouble accepting his new bride, now his wife in truth. Someone is also trying to start a war between the Armstrong and Montgomery clans, which puts both of their lives at risk.
There was some great action toward the end, but for most of the book the story is focused on Graeme and Eveline getting to know each other. We learn much about his clan, and meet his brothers (who will have their own stories too)! It was a sweet romance. Graeme was not a dark alpha type hero you normally read about it Highlander/Medieval romances.
This was a great start to a new series. It was a bit predictable, but I still recommend it for a fun read. I will definitely read the next, can’t wait. If you like sexy highlander romances, but want a book where the hero isn’t a brooding alpha type, this is a great choice.
July 1, 2021
Perhaps it’s time for me to give it up and face the fact that historical romance is not for me. god this was so boring
April 3, 2023
This was pleasant enough but nothing too memorable.
There were parts to this that were so sweet and the romance was really tender, but the story as a whole was quite fast paced. Which I liked. It was so easy to read and binge the story. But at the same time, I would’ve liked for it to slow down just so that we had more time with the characters. Mainly to have them converse so they could get to know each other.
I think as a reader I got to know them on an individual level, but I don’t know if the characters ever did. It felt somewhat surface level? But it also didn’t?
The focus was on the plot and I would’ve liked to have seen the process of the two love interests actually falling for each other, despite the fact that things were so tense between their two clans. They overcame a lifetime of animosity between them quite quickly and I just wasn’t convinced.
It appreciated the deaf representation and how safe Eveline felt with Graeme.
But I’m in two minds about this. It was bloody sweet, but something was missing for me. It wasn’t fleshed out enough for my liking. I needed more substance.
There were parts to this that were so sweet and the romance was really tender, but the story as a whole was quite fast paced. Which I liked. It was so easy to read and binge the story. But at the same time, I would’ve liked for it to slow down just so that we had more time with the characters. Mainly to have them converse so they could get to know each other.
I think as a reader I got to know them on an individual level, but I don’t know if the characters ever did. It felt somewhat surface level? But it also didn’t?
The focus was on the plot and I would’ve liked to have seen the process of the two love interests actually falling for each other, despite the fact that things were so tense between their two clans. They overcame a lifetime of animosity between them quite quickly and I just wasn’t convinced.
It appreciated the deaf representation and how safe Eveline felt with Graeme.
But I’m in two minds about this. It was bloody sweet, but something was missing for me. It wasn’t fleshed out enough for my liking. I needed more substance.
April 20, 2016
I have to say,I was truely touched by this read.Especially after reading the author's notes under ACKNOWLEDGMENTS....
AUTHOR'S NOTE :Eveline’s deafness is based on my husband’s own hearing condition.No one ever knew how bad his hearing was until he was in his master’s program in college.He’d taught himself to read lips and got through school by sitting close to the teachers so he
could see their mouths.Like Eveline,he cannot hear higher pitches and only some lower
tones.This book and the heroine is a nod to him and his perseverance.
I cant believe I let this book lie on my TBR for soooo loong ! Totally faceplam-ing myself now !!
MAYA BANKS established her story quiet wonderfully as always,with strong characters and a very unique plot.This book has DEFINITELY earned its place on my FAVORITES shelf...it is the least I could do for keeping my awake to 2:30 AM ;)
TO ME..This read depicted a true moral by the end.
If I was in EVELINE'S place I'll admit I probably wouldn't have taken my sudden deafness so bravely while promising myself to make the very best out of it...And for that I truly do admire both,the character and THE AUTHOR'S HUSBAND for going on with such perseverance.
To those who always fear failure but face the inevitable head on anyway..STAY STRONG BECAUSE
AUTHOR'S NOTE :Eveline’s deafness is based on my husband’s own hearing condition.No one ever knew how bad his hearing was until he was in his master’s program in college.He’d taught himself to read lips and got through school by sitting close to the teachers so he
could see their mouths.Like Eveline,he cannot hear higher pitches and only some lower
tones.This book and the heroine is a nod to him and his perseverance.
I cant believe I let this book lie on my TBR for soooo loong ! Totally faceplam-ing myself now !!
MAYA BANKS established her story quiet wonderfully as always,with strong characters and a very unique plot.This book has DEFINITELY earned its place on my FAVORITES shelf...it is the least I could do for keeping my awake to 2:30 AM ;)
TO ME..This read depicted a true moral by the end.
If I was in EVELINE'S place I'll admit I probably wouldn't have taken my sudden deafness so bravely while promising myself to make the very best out of it...And for that I truly do admire both,the character and THE AUTHOR'S HUSBAND for going on with such perseverance.
To those who always fear failure but face the inevitable head on anyway..STAY STRONG BECAUSE
April 25, 2013
What a wonderful story!!I absolutely loved this book!!!My first and definetely favorite historical book!!!!
The story starts with a century of long feud between the Armstrong and Montgomery clans.
The king, having the support of both of these very strong clans fears that his backing will be weakened severely if these 2 clans kill each other off.
Really, it's just a matter of time before they war with each other.
In a last ditch effort to save this from happening the King decides to issue an edict that the only daughter of the Armstrong clan must marry the Laird of the Montgomery clan.
By uniting the clans in marriage he hopes it will keep them from hurting one another...
This is met with much anger and hurt on both sides, but what other choice do they have? If they go against the King it will be seen as an act of treason and their clans would be destroyed....
For Graeme, not only would that mean tying himself to his fiercest enemy's clan by marriage but it's also known throughout Scotland that the chief's daughter is daft,addled,touched.
So it would also mean he couldn't expect a proper wife and therefore his dream of heirs to pass the Montgomery name to is also shattered...
It's a crushing blow....
Graeme
Eveline
I loved the characters in this book!!
Graeme is fair,loyal,caring,protective and open.
Eveline is strong,tenacious,sweet,feisty and loving.
I found it refreshing to have a heroine that was not "perfect."
Their relationship between Graeme and Eveline was incredibility sweet and romantic and I loved the way he stood up for her while she is struggling to gain acceptance into his clan.
And while most of the book did revolve around their relationship them getting to know one another and falling in love and they have good chemistry.
Their bond is tested as they face challenges,igotry and danger.Their fierce protection of each other is amazing during dire circumstances!!!
Favorite part
"I appreciate that you seek to protect her Rorie but do not assume that I cannot also give her protection from those who wish her ill.'Tis my duty as her husband and one I do not take lightly.Now sit.The both of you"
"My lady,I don't simply care for her.I love her.She is my entire life.Without her,I am nothing.I have nothing".
The story starts with a century of long feud between the Armstrong and Montgomery clans.
The king, having the support of both of these very strong clans fears that his backing will be weakened severely if these 2 clans kill each other off.
Really, it's just a matter of time before they war with each other.
In a last ditch effort to save this from happening the King decides to issue an edict that the only daughter of the Armstrong clan must marry the Laird of the Montgomery clan.
By uniting the clans in marriage he hopes it will keep them from hurting one another...
This is met with much anger and hurt on both sides, but what other choice do they have? If they go against the King it will be seen as an act of treason and their clans would be destroyed....
For Graeme, not only would that mean tying himself to his fiercest enemy's clan by marriage but it's also known throughout Scotland that the chief's daughter is daft,addled,touched.
So it would also mean he couldn't expect a proper wife and therefore his dream of heirs to pass the Montgomery name to is also shattered...
It's a crushing blow....
Graeme
Eveline
I loved the characters in this book!!
Graeme is fair,loyal,caring,protective and open.
Eveline is strong,tenacious,sweet,feisty and loving.
I found it refreshing to have a heroine that was not "perfect."
Their relationship between Graeme and Eveline was incredibility sweet and romantic and I loved the way he stood up for her while she is struggling to gain acceptance into his clan.
And while most of the book did revolve around their relationship them getting to know one another and falling in love and they have good chemistry.
Their bond is tested as they face challenges,igotry and danger.Their fierce protection of each other is amazing during dire circumstances!!!
Favorite part
"I appreciate that you seek to protect her Rorie but do not assume that I cannot also give her protection from those who wish her ill.'Tis my duty as her husband and one I do not take lightly.Now sit.The both of you"
"My lady,I don't simply care for her.I love her.She is my entire life.Without her,I am nothing.I have nothing".
July 17, 2018
Ugh, just some evidence of my tiny, hard, shriveled heart.
I had some issues with this book, and none of them were necessarily the issues you'd expect from this type of set up.
Everything was just so perfect
After decades long feud (or more) you come to realize these fighting clans are just made up of the best people. except for the mean girls in the Montgomery clan. Without the mean girls, there'd be no conflict. NONE. Absolutely none. Because the hero is a perfect patient man who says all the right things, repeatedly and is astounded by just how sweet and beautiful the heroine is. And she's astounded that she can hear his vocalizations and just how sweet, patient, and loyal he is. It's just so happy. And they are just so perfect. And just so beautiful.
It was SO repetitive between discussions on their beauty, the conflict between the clans, the fact that Eveline tried so hard and Graeme did too, and then that we'd repeat that within the same page in just a different order I feel like the author missed putting any depth or content and just went straight for word count (I could handle this better in audio cause I could kind of space here and there)
It was beyond sentimental. Between the repetition and the sentimentality, I wish I could show you a video of how many times I scoffed. Graeme declares his love to Eveline's dad. Then he repeats it to her mom. Almost the exact same phrasing. And it was, like, so sticky.
Complicated family drama just brushed aside in favor of this beautiful beautiful love.
I was so disappointed for what could have been. Maybe just a tiny bit more reluctance between characters and their families. Maybe not the outrageous mean girls from the Montgomery clan as a method for conflict & the ex-fiance as the final culmination. Plot devices, all. At first, I couldn't believe this was the same author that I weirdly stumbled across that wrote about the woman savior for the Colter Brothers (and yak, don't get me started with that one). Turns out, this is about another woman savior. Everyone just loves her so damn much that nothing else, Nothing Else, matters.
It was an easy read. The beginning was really promising. Then it went rapidly to pot.
I had some issues with this book, and none of them were necessarily the issues you'd expect from this type of set up.
Everything was just so perfect
After decades long feud (or more) you come to realize these fighting clans are just made up of the best people. except for the mean girls in the Montgomery clan. Without the mean girls, there'd be no conflict. NONE. Absolutely none. Because the hero is a perfect patient man who says all the right things, repeatedly and is astounded by just how sweet and beautiful the heroine is. And she's astounded that she can hear his vocalizations and just how sweet, patient, and loyal he is. It's just so happy. And they are just so perfect. And just so beautiful.
It was SO repetitive between discussions on their beauty, the conflict between the clans, the fact that Eveline tried so hard and Graeme did too, and then that we'd repeat that within the same page in just a different order I feel like the author missed putting any depth or content and just went straight for word count (I could handle this better in audio cause I could kind of space here and there)
It was beyond sentimental. Between the repetition and the sentimentality, I wish I could show you a video of how many times I scoffed. Graeme declares his love to Eveline's dad. Then he repeats it to her mom. Almost the exact same phrasing. And it was, like, so sticky.
Complicated family drama just brushed aside in favor of this beautiful beautiful love.
I was so disappointed for what could have been. Maybe just a tiny bit more reluctance between characters and their families. Maybe not the outrageous mean girls from the Montgomery clan as a method for conflict & the ex-fiance as the final culmination. Plot devices, all. At first, I couldn't believe this was the same author that I weirdly stumbled across that wrote about the woman savior for the Colter Brothers (and yak, don't get me started with that one). Turns out, this is about another woman savior. Everyone just loves her so damn much that nothing else, Nothing Else, matters.
It was an easy read. The beginning was really promising. Then it went rapidly to pot.
September 13, 2021
4 stars
Never Seduce a Scot was my first book by Maya Hughes and I definitely want to check out more of her historicals. I enjoyed this one so much!
This story is about two families, the Armstrongs and the Montgomerys who have feuded for quite some time. The king decides that they have to put this feud in the past and demands a wedding between the two families. That is how Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery end up wed.
Eveline was in an accident years ago that left her different. She’s kept it to herself, but her issue is that she’s deaf, but she can read lips. She can communicate, it’s just more difficult for her. With time, she ends up trusting Graeme and lets him in on her secret.
I adored Graeme and Eveline together. I didn’t love the way a lot of Graeme’s people treated Eveline, but I love how he stood up for her. There was some drama at the end that was resolved a bit quickly, but I loved the way things wrapped up. I’m looking forward to reading more from the Montgomery clan!
Never Seduce a Scot was my first book by Maya Hughes and I definitely want to check out more of her historicals. I enjoyed this one so much!
This story is about two families, the Armstrongs and the Montgomerys who have feuded for quite some time. The king decides that they have to put this feud in the past and demands a wedding between the two families. That is how Eveline Armstrong and Graeme Montgomery end up wed.
Eveline was in an accident years ago that left her different. She’s kept it to herself, but her issue is that she’s deaf, but she can read lips. She can communicate, it’s just more difficult for her. With time, she ends up trusting Graeme and lets him in on her secret.
I adored Graeme and Eveline together. I didn’t love the way a lot of Graeme’s people treated Eveline, but I love how he stood up for her. There was some drama at the end that was resolved a bit quickly, but I loved the way things wrapped up. I’m looking forward to reading more from the Montgomery clan!
Audio book source: Hoopla
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Kirsten Potter
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Historical romance
Length: 10h 10m
November 10, 2022
4 💘💘💘💘🌟s❣️
I was hesitant to start this hr read because of the lustful cover!
Anyway, I started reading it. And I was very happy because the story had nothing to do with the vibes from the cover!
It was a wonderful story, sweet, the romance between Eveline and Graeme was beautifully executed and their connection was amazing!!
I couldn’t not love them.
I liked this story a lot❣️
I was hesitant to start this hr read because of the lustful cover!
Anyway, I started reading it. And I was very happy because the story had nothing to do with the vibes from the cover!
It was a wonderful story, sweet, the romance between Eveline and Graeme was beautifully executed and their connection was amazing!!
I couldn’t not love them.
I liked this story a lot❣️
March 4, 2020
O carte plină de emoții: durere, teamă, tandrețe, iubire.
Graeme și Eveline fac parte din clanuri care se dușmănesc de moarte de ani și ani de zile. Asta până când regele ordonă căsătoria celor doi pentru aplanarea conflictelor, sub amenințarea că, în caz contrar, vor fi declarați proscriși.
Eveline are o poveste tristă în spate, care, odată înțeleasă, te face să suferi și să apreciezi curajul tinerei.
Destinul are grijă ca soarta celor doi tineri să fie pecetluită încă de la început, când Eveline acceptă bucuroasă căsătoria.
Fata a avut un accident cu ani în urmă și a rămas surdă. Dar fiind convinsă că va fi obligată să se căsătorească cu cel ales de părinții ei, preferă să nu destăinuie adevărul. Graeme realizează acest lucru după ce se căsătoresc.
Ușor ușor, sentimentele celor doi iau amploare, dar sunt puțin întunecate de opoziția clanului împotriva fetei: astfel, tânăra Eveline suferă o mulțime de jigniri și Nedreptăți până când izbucnește. Astfel, Graeme află că ea poate vorbi dar nu poate auzi.
O adevărată pleiadă de pericole pare să li se aștearnă în cale celor doi înainte să poată să-și declare adevăratele sentimente.
Subjugarea unui scoțian este o carte care m-a luat cu adevărat prin surprindere. O scriitură total diferită față de romanele erotice ale autoarei — pe care le-am citit până acum.
Superbă! O poveste care emoționează de la prima și până la ultima pagină!
Graeme și Eveline fac parte din clanuri care se dușmănesc de moarte de ani și ani de zile. Asta până când regele ordonă căsătoria celor doi pentru aplanarea conflictelor, sub amenințarea că, în caz contrar, vor fi declarați proscriși.
Eveline are o poveste tristă în spate, care, odată înțeleasă, te face să suferi și să apreciezi curajul tinerei.
Destinul are grijă ca soarta celor doi tineri să fie pecetluită încă de la început, când Eveline acceptă bucuroasă căsătoria.
Fata a avut un accident cu ani în urmă și a rămas surdă. Dar fiind convinsă că va fi obligată să se căsătorească cu cel ales de părinții ei, preferă să nu destăinuie adevărul. Graeme realizează acest lucru după ce se căsătoresc.
Ușor ușor, sentimentele celor doi iau amploare, dar sunt puțin întunecate de opoziția clanului împotriva fetei: astfel, tânăra Eveline suferă o mulțime de jigniri și Nedreptăți până când izbucnește. Astfel, Graeme află că ea poate vorbi dar nu poate auzi.
O adevărată pleiadă de pericole pare să li se aștearnă în cale celor doi înainte să poată să-și declare adevăratele sentimente.
Subjugarea unui scoțian este o carte care m-a luat cu adevărat prin surprindere. O scriitură total diferită față de romanele erotice ale autoarei — pe care le-am citit până acum.
Superbă! O poveste care emoționează de la prima și până la ultima pagină!
July 10, 2012
Eveline has thought to be daft since her spill on a horse years ago. So when the king forms a marriage between two enemy clans regarding Eveline's hand in marriage, her family is outraged. However, to refuse the marriage would be defying the king, but, they do not let her go to their enemies hands lightly and are quick to inform Graeme of Eveline's condition. When she happens upon Graeme and her father speaking, she is instantly taken with him. He is the first person she has ever been able to hear. Granted, she can't make out words but she can feel the vibration from his deep timber voice and the fact that that is the first voice she's noticed excites her.
Graeme is not too thrilled with this arranged marriage but like the Armstrongs, there is naught he can do about it without gaining the wrath of the king. So he goes along onto enemy land to marry a daft girl. A girl who will most assuredly, due to her condition, never produce an heir, thus ending his line. What he wasn't expecting was a beautiful woman who not only seems taken with him but shows great intellect and awareness as well. He is instantly protective of her and when problems arise back on Montgomery land with his clan not accepting her, he is quick to squash the problem and make an example of those whom are harassing her.
This was a great historical romance. I admit that this is the first Maya Banks novel that I have read and I can honestly say that it won't be my last. In fact, I look forward to more from this series. Banks has a great way of telling a story and painting the picture of the grassy green hills of Scotland. I instantly fell in love with the characters and look forward to catching up with them in the next novel. The romance between Eveline and Graeme didn't by any means feel rushed since for a good portion of the book, Graeme thinks her daft and tries to respect her as an innocent woman. I even enjoyed the secondary characters and am quite pleased to find out that this is part of a series.
Favorite part...
Once arriving on Montgomery land after the marriage Eveline is taking to her chamber. Note the "her" and not the "their" chamber. She is not pleased at all that unlike a normal marriage, her husband has placed her in a separate room to his own. So she sets out to rectify this immediately and is caught by Graeme's sister Rorie when she's trying, unsuccessfully I might add, to move her trunks to which ever room might be his. So she asks Rorie to help her not only find Graeme's room but to assist her in moving all of her belongings there.
"Rorie burst out laughing. Her sister-in-law wasn't happy over her accommodations and she wanted to move into Graeme's chamber. She should be loyal and sternly inform her brother's new bride that is Graeme had wanted her in his chamber he would have put her there. But the devil on her shoulder told her it could be quite fun to aid Eveline in her endeavor and give Graeme a shock when he retired later."
Graeme is not too thrilled with this arranged marriage but like the Armstrongs, there is naught he can do about it without gaining the wrath of the king. So he goes along onto enemy land to marry a daft girl. A girl who will most assuredly, due to her condition, never produce an heir, thus ending his line. What he wasn't expecting was a beautiful woman who not only seems taken with him but shows great intellect and awareness as well. He is instantly protective of her and when problems arise back on Montgomery land with his clan not accepting her, he is quick to squash the problem and make an example of those whom are harassing her.
This was a great historical romance. I admit that this is the first Maya Banks novel that I have read and I can honestly say that it won't be my last. In fact, I look forward to more from this series. Banks has a great way of telling a story and painting the picture of the grassy green hills of Scotland. I instantly fell in love with the characters and look forward to catching up with them in the next novel. The romance between Eveline and Graeme didn't by any means feel rushed since for a good portion of the book, Graeme thinks her daft and tries to respect her as an innocent woman. I even enjoyed the secondary characters and am quite pleased to find out that this is part of a series.
Favorite part...
Once arriving on Montgomery land after the marriage Eveline is taking to her chamber. Note the "her" and not the "their" chamber. She is not pleased at all that unlike a normal marriage, her husband has placed her in a separate room to his own. So she sets out to rectify this immediately and is caught by Graeme's sister Rorie when she's trying, unsuccessfully I might add, to move her trunks to which ever room might be his. So she asks Rorie to help her not only find Graeme's room but to assist her in moving all of her belongings there.
"Rorie burst out laughing. Her sister-in-law wasn't happy over her accommodations and she wanted to move into Graeme's chamber. She should be loyal and sternly inform her brother's new bride that is Graeme had wanted her in his chamber he would have put her there. But the devil on her shoulder told her it could be quite fun to aid Eveline in her endeavor and give Graeme a shock when he retired later."
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