Highlander Unchained

I really like the way Monica writes her stories. There aren't alot of frustrating love "misunderstandings," which I hate, in her novels. This is a great, satisfying love story that is rich in historic color. It is really a worthwile book to read.

When I first saw this book, my first thought was it was a rip off of Karen Marie Moning, who is one of my favorites. However, when I saw it at my local library I decided to give it a shot. I was surprised at how much I enjoyed it. The heroine, Flora isn't some helpless flower, she's willful, clever, mischievous and untrusting of highlanders. The hero, Lachlan is built of steel a man, bound by honor to his clan - but with a tender heart. What struck me most was how sizzling the chemistry was between them. There were also some very spicy sex scenes too. The book did follow the basic formula of most historical romance novels - but I still thought it was an enjoyable read and well written. I'm looking forward to reading more of Monica McCarty's books.

I've read the entire series and really enjoyed each book, but this was my favorite. Why? The hero Lachlan was a more well rounded hero who didn't spend most of the book fighting his feelings, which I just loved! The heroine was also smart and quite likable. These two made a perfect couple. I also liked the contrast of a rough alpha male wooing a sophisticated woman who he feels is too good for him, all within the boundaries of her being his prisoner.(Yeah, that does make it a bit tough!) Ahhh, so heartwarming. There is also a tale of a curse, which helps tie the story together and was also quite interesting. In summary, the hero kidnaps his enemy's younger sister(Flora) with all intensions of wooing her into marriage to seal a bargain with her cousin. Flora is beautiful and independantly wealthy, thanks to her deceased mother. She refuses to be forced into a marriage that isn't soley based on love. Lachlan sets about earning her trust, and eventually her heart, meanwhile losing his heart in the process. There is much back story going on, including his clan and brother being in much danger. This marriage will help free his people and revenge his enemy, if Flora will agree to mary Lochlan. The story was fast, adventurous, and very romantic. The sensuality was very steamy, making this also a hot read. These books can all be read in any order. Highly recommended! Enjoy.

Highlander (Laird) Lachlan Maclean is desperate to protect his clan. He will do anything to restore his rightful place at his castle and bring his brother back. Anything. That includes abducting the highlander heiress and wooing her into marriage. If only it were that easy. The Holyrood hellion was aptly named. For there never was a more troublesome making woman. Och! A beauty for sure, who lefts broken hearts at court. But Lachlan isn't intimidated by the wee bonnie lass. He doesn't need or want her heart. He only needs her hand in marriage. How difficult could that be? Flora MacLeod is determined not follow the path of her mother, a bartered political pawn. The handsome and dangerous highlander may have stolen her, but never her heart! Certainly she will never agree to a marriage. Nay! All his wooing will come to naught. For she will never succumb to his desires. Even if they become her own? Because of her birth and wealth (of which she has no control over) Flora is know as the greatest marriage prize in Scotland. The alliance through her marriage alone would make her valuable, but with her money she is irresistible. But she doesn't want marriage on anyone's terms. She doesn't want to end up like her miserable mother. Then she is abducted and fights for her life. Bringing forth her entire arsenal of trouble making ways. While held captive she reluctantly finds love. Only the secret the hero holds can shatter the bond they so tenuously have formed. The hero is torn. Doing what is good for his people and not hurting the one woman he loves. No one will emerge from this unscathed. If you like those strong heroine types then this is for you. Another hunky highlander and his spirited lass. Similar and just as good as the prequel 'Highlander Unmasked' (my personal favorite of the trilogy) in that the hero is torn between his duty and love. Well fleshed out characters and an intriguing plot. But the loves scenes? **thud** (that's me fainting here ;)) Maccarty doesn't call it highlander UNCHAINED for nothing! Lachlan sure doesn't hold back in his lovin'! Recommended. A fine Scottish historical romance with plenty of spice. And kudos to the author for adding the interesting tidbit about the legend about the 'Lady's Rock'. Makes you want to believe in fairy tales and HEA endings.

Normally, when I wait anxiously for a book, I feel a little bit down. HIGHLANDER UNCHAINED definitely did not provoke that sentiment. If anything, this book is even better than the first two in the series, HIGHLANDER UNMASKED (#2) and HIGHLANDER UNTAMED (#1). Flora McLeod (half-sister of Rory and Alex, the previous heroes of the series) is taking her life into her own hands. Instead of submitting to a possible arranged marriage by her powerful brothers, both Rory and her other half-brother Hector Maclean of Duart, or her powerful uncle the Earl of Argyll, she has picked her own husband and decided to elope. Her elopement, however, is ended quickly when they are stopped by Lachlan Maclean of Coll. He has his own plans regarding Flora's marriage - namely that he himself should be her husband. And in doing so, he will save his brother's life. I absolutely loved the character of Flora - she's willful and strong, without being stupid and spoiled. She's the perfect match for Lachlan, who is prideful and powerful, but without being autocratic about it. The chemistry between them leaps off the page, and makes you fall in love with them. Excellently researched and written, HIGHLANDER UNCHAINED is a wonderful read.