Bride of a Scottish Warrior by Adrienne Basso
Genre: Historical Romance
Series: n/a
Publication Date: July 1st 2014
ISBN: 9781420129045
Page Count: 352
Rating: ★★★1/2
Review Copy: ARC
Reviewed by: Lynsey   
Synopsis: A union born of duty...

Newly knighted Sir Ewan Gilroy needs a dowry and a wife, in that order. Though the widowed Lady Grace plans to enter a convent, squandering so much lush beauty - and such a fortune - would surely be its own sin. Grace will not be easily wooed, despite her family's urging and Ewan's famed charm. She challenges him as no woman ever dared, proving his equal in spirit and in passions...

Forged by desire...

To atone for her past, Grace vows to never remarry - least of all a brash and reckless warrior. Yet whether defending her honor or stoking desires she hardly knew she possessed, Ewan is a man beyond compare. And as their fragile trust is threatened by treachery, Grace must decide whether to reach for the happiness within her grasp - and fight for the love of her bold Highlander...

REVIEW

I mostly enjoyed this sweet sensual romance, although it has to be said that I don't enjoy second chance relationships - divorcees, widows and the like -  nearly as much as I do a traditional blushing bride.

Hey, it's my escapism - don't judge me!

That said, in this instance, the heroine, Grace, could hardly be described as experienced in matters of lurve since her late husband was very standoffish and often away travelling with the Bruce. After his death, and despite still being very young and appealing, Grace is convinced that the convent is the only place for her, and she makes it known to her brother she wishes to give the rest of her life to the service of the Lord.

Our hero, Ewan, has other ideas. He's determined to bring home a noble bride and has decided that lady grace is the one or he'll have no one. His determination to change her mind is aided by the fierce desire that sparks between them. But is his rugged charm enough to convince her to give up on her future as a nun? Time alone on the journey will certainly put that to the test!

I found the plotting to Bride of a Scottish Warrior to be a little slow, in places and the antagonist rather weak. Were it not for the likeable hero and heroine I may not have rated this as high as I have overall it was enjoyable but quickly forgettable.

3.5 Stars ★★★1/2

A copy of this book was provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.