2.5 stars rounded up. This heroine is an even more skilled warrior than the one in the previous book. And I was so interested and hopeful when she was introduced as being very brave and capable. But she ended up being kind of a ninny. She's a hothead who is uninterested, apparently, in coming up with a plan of attack given a challenge, but just charges off in whatever direction the mood strikes her. And she has a terrible understanding of human behavior, and is a trial for anyone who spends time around her. It was very disappointing. The hero on the other hand is *also* a great fighter, but on top of that is also clever and charming. There's a lot of 'battle of the wills' sort of thing, but it just felt so uneven to me. I guess perhaps it's more oldschool or something. She's loyal I suppose. But mostly I didn't find her very interesting and she irritated me. The hero was okay, though he didn't strongly appeal to me. If it had been edited down a bit more it might not have felt like it dragged out so much, but it could just appeal more to a different audience. I liked the first in the series, so I will continue on with the books that follow the next generation, and see how they go. ( )

After stumbling upon a warrior lass that had already killed six, rogue Highlander finds the one woman who can intrigue him
( )

In short:

The cover says, "...hey, but standing like this worked for that Brawny paper towel dude. Feast yer eyes, I look bonny showing off my manly, Scottish, washboard abs and perfectly situated pepperoni nipples."

The writing says, "Ignore the cover. Don't judge a book...yada, yada, yada... I know what I'm doing. I know how to write" (She really does).

The story says, "Sweet Kilted Knees, Batman! You're gonna have a wee bit of fun reading this tale."

All seriousness aside (did you get that?), these are a guilty pleasure for me. Off to find more Paula Quinn books. ( )

Defending Her Was His Duty

Skilled with a sword and quick with her wit, Scottish rebel Claire Stuart cannot be tamed. And nothing can deter her from rescuing her beloved sister and saving them both from arranged marriages--not even the handsome Highlander who vows to protect Claire. His scorching gaze and fiery kiss bring her to the brink of surrender, but she belongs to no man...

Seducing Her Would Be His Reward

Graham Grant has had his share of lasses. But he has never met one as headstrong or as bonnie as Claire--or one with such desperate, dnagerous plans. Helping her could betray his honor, his country, and more. Graham can't claim her. Yet everything in him says: Take her, make her yours, teach her pleasure, and never let her go.