The Scot Beds His Wife (Victorian Rebels)

Samantha has always had it rough growing up in America's Wild West but when the man she married to escape a worse fate turns out to be in an outlaw gang with his brothers, she realizes she may have made a mistake. When she makes a fatal decision to save another life, she gets the opportunity to start fresh in a new country.
Gavin has wanted nothing more than to separate himself from his brutish dead father's name and buying the Ross land gives him that chance. When Alison Ross finally comes back to Scotland from America, he makes it his mission to woo her land from her.
Samantha and Gavin have tough pasts but also deep feelings developing, their held secrets and lies will have to be overcome if they're to survive.

"I don't think I believe in villains. Heroes either. Just people. People with agendas and the things they're willing to do to get what they want."

Fifth in the Victorian Rebels series, Gavin Thorne is the middle brother of villainous Hamish MacKenzie's sons. It's possible to pick this book up without reading the others in the series as the author does a pretty good job of explaining the animosity between him and his brother Liam (hero from #3 The Highlander) and Samantha is a new character not previous mentioned in the other books. Even knowing the background between the two brothers, Gavin's arguing with his brother came off a bit immature as it seemed an adult in his late thirties should have figured out that the blame towards his brother was a bit misplaced. The relationship between Gavin and Liam fell into the pitfall of not feeling fleshed out enough, along with other relationships in the book.

She was little better than a banshee with a sidearm.

While Gavin had a tendency to come off a bit immature, his bed hopping and general rogue actions are supposed to be cover for his pain, Samantha was our hard as nails, mouth like a sailor, and stubborn heroine. There is seriously a lot of cursing in this story and most of it done by Samantha. This being a historical, I have to say, it threw me a bit. Obviously, women cursed in the 1800s but the frequency with which Samantha threw out the f word and ease of saying sh*t, couldn't help but give it an awkward modern feel; a personal dislike. I don't want to get into spoilers because this is an ARC review, but the secrets and lies Samantha holds until very close to the end of the story, made it very hard for me to ever warm up to her. In fact, the very bottom heavy feel of this book, was one of the biggest problems I had with it.

"I'm not asking ye to like me, lass, only to marry me."

If you've read the other books in the series, you'll know the author's writing can veer towards almost purple prose. The wordiness, flowery, and waxing poetic descriptive writing needed to be edited down; it kept the story from furthering along while making it drag. It wasn't until around the 70% mark that I felt the author started to get down to business of building a relationship between our hero and heroine; previously felt completely based on lust. The last 30% was full of reasons why I'm a big fan of this author, the hero and heroine engage in conversations that were witty, funny, and moving while all the secondary characters and side plot lines were coming together to create an intriguing and interesting story. Unfortunately, with some pretty heavy secrets not getting revealed until the 90% point, there just wasn't enough time to resolve and build a believable and emotionally satisfying romantic relationship for me. There was a slight secondary romance between the hero's mother and pseudo-father figure that I felt had more emotion and romance than the main couple.

With a heroine that holds onto her secrets for far too long and a hero whose emotions felt based on lust, I was disappointed in the romance. The majority of the story focused on needless over descriptive dreamy writing while ignoring to the very end the building blocks of emotion. I have a feeling the next two heroes are introduced here, Gavin's friend Callum seems to have quite the backstory with the real Alison Ross and our secretive pirate The Rook mentioned in previous books makes an upfront appearance here. The author has created a dark and intriguing world for this series, I'm going to treat this installment as a one off and be back for the next.

"Who knew being married was such fun," he panted, pressing a kiss to her temple and swatting her backside simultaneously.
She pulled back to look at him, one of her rare, reluctant smiles tugging at the corner of her kiss-reddened mouth. "You probably should have done it years ago."
"Nay, lass," he said suddenly feeling very serious. "Then it wouldna have been ye."

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

This book doesn't disappoint as Byrne continues her world of Victorian Rebels. Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne, wants out of his notorious family and sees the lush property of Erradale as his ticket to stability for himself and his dependents. To get it he will beg, borrow, steal or seduce it away from its owner Alison Ross. When Samantha Masters is offered a chance to escape the wreck she's made of her life in America by assuming another woman's identity and running to Scotland, she leaps at the chance and pays the price for her impulsive decisions, yet again. This book kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how they were going to work it out even though the secret that was going to trip them up was clear throughout. I was not expecting the last 50 pages though! Holy cow! Now I really can't wait for the next book to come out! Keep 'em coming Ms. Byrne, pretty please!

Publisher's Description:

The Scot Beds His Wife is the next lush, captivating Victorian romance in the Victorian Rebels series by Kerrigan Byrne.

They’re rebels, scoundrels, and blackguards—dark, dashing men on the wrong side of the law. But for the women who love them, a hint of danger only makes the heart beat faster.

Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne, is a notorious Highlander and an unrelenting Lothario who uses his slightly menacing charm to get what he wants—including too many women married to other men. But now, Gavin wants to put his shady past behind him...more or less. When a fiery lass who is the heiress to the land he wishes to possess drops into his lap, he sees a perfectly delicious opportunity...

A marriage most convenient

Samantha Masters has come back to Scotland, in a pair of trousers, and with a whole world of dangerous secrets from her time spent in the Wild West trailing behind her. Her only hope of protection is to marry—and to do so quickly. Gavin is only too willing to provide that service for someone he finds so disturbingly irresistible. But even as danger approaches, what begins as a scandalous proposition slowly turns into an all-consuming passion. And Gavin discovers that he will do whatever is necessary to keep the woman he has claimed as his own...

My Thoughts:

A woman running from a less than lawful past with another secret to conceal and a man who wishes to change and also put his shady past behind him. These are the elements that comprise this convoluted tale on Book #5 of the Victorian Rebels series.
Samantha has returned to Scotland to escape her unlawful past in the Wild West. Gavin is also trying to escape an equally unlawful past as a smuggler.
This pair come to a bargain of a marriage of convenience which turns out to be less than convenient after all.
I have read this entire series to date but this one is my least favorite. There is just too much use of the "F" word and the storyline was just not to my liking. It also has a feel of a less than historical story. I know it's not a regency and is a bit more modern as a Victorian title but it feels just too modern.
I gave this book 3.25 of 5.0 stars for storyline and characterization and a sensual rating of 3.5 of 5.0 flames. When the intimacy kicks in it can be rather hot and sensual. However it seems to be a different story when that happens.
I received a complimentary digital ARC of this title via NetGalley from the publisher to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily.

From the American Wild West, Samantha Masters has
taken on the identity of Scottish heiress Alison Ross.
They met during a train robbery when Samantha’s
husband was going to murder Alison. Sam shoots and
kills her husband. Now both the gang members and
law will be on her trail. But Alison thankful for Sam’s
intervention and saving her life has a solution. Alison
has a property in Scotland that she will have to forfeit
until she lives on the property for one year. Alison
persuades Sam to take on her identity and live on the
property.
Gavin St. James is the Earl of Thorne. He wants to
break away of his notoriously, cruel family. A player with
a reputation, he needs the Ross land to raise cattle and
farm to be able to change his living style. He never
expected Alison (Samantha) to return to her property.
Now she is back and he is totally unprepared for the
woman who returns. There is immediate undeniable
chemistry between the two but stubbornness seems
to prevail.
An interesting historical Victorian fictional story with
deeply filled characters filled with childhood horrors
trying to break free of the past to be able to walk
without baggage into unknown future. They both want
to be loved for themselves but will they be able to
overcome the deceitful set back life has thrown their way.
A well created plot with sexual tension and a cast of
well developed, colorful secondary characters.
This is book # in the Victorian Rebels series. It was the
first one I read. I had no trouble following the characters
as the author wove the past and present together
effortlessly.
I volunteered to read The Scot Beds His Wife. Thanks
to St Martin’s Press via NetGalley for the opportunity.
My opinion is my own.

Samantha Masters is on the run from more than just trouble in the west. She’s running from her own actions, her own decisions, and her own demons. Gavin McKenzie isn’t running, he’s hiding in plain sight. Everything that is dark and dangerous within him is hidden behind his handsome face and his easy smile and wit. When these two come together it’s unlike anything the Scottish Highlands have ever beheld.

Sam is one tough heroine with a dirty mouth and the ability to stand up for herself. She doesn’t need someone looking out for her or protecting her. She’s been doing that her whole life. Gavin has one desire and the only way to obtain it is through sharp edged woman that keeps pulling her gun on him. He should find her unappealing. He should be enraged. Instead, he’s finding her compelling and oh so tempting. It makes no sense whatsoever.

This was a slower paced read but without a lot of unnecessary prose. Although Sam is not my favorite type of heroine, with her background she couldn’t be any other way and I accepted her as such. Gavin was more of the alpha hero I like and the fact that he had to keep reminding himself he simply wanted Erradale more than Sam actually made me love him all the more. He just couldn’t lie to himself regarding his feelings for her.

I absolutely loved everything about the secondary characters. They added so much depth to the story while also setting the reader up for future stories. This had a great ending even though there was so much happening all at once and very quickly. I would’ve liked to have seen it expanded a bit.

I have other books by this author on my wish list but this is my first time to actually read anything written by her. I’m currently making plans to check a few things off that list very soon.

This is an honest review of an advanced copy provided by NetGalley St. Martin’s Press.

Having been thoroughly entertained by previous books I couldn't wait to see what the author had in store for the youngest Mackenzie brother and yes you need to go back to the beginning if new to this series.
Gavin wants nothing to do with his family and is determined to strike out on his own. The chance to purchase land that has been neglected consumes him but the owner seems determined to ignore him. Well that all changes when Alison arrives in the Highlands to prove her ownership but all is not exactly straightforward and the abrasive lassie quickly causes Gavin to rethink his plans!
I love all the characters that this author brings to glorious life on the page and this book is no exception. Gavin locks away his feelings, hides behind a facade and yes he's a complicated mixture of bravado and kindness. Sam ( Alison) is a breath of fresh air with her brash confidence and determination to do the right thing. There is no doubt a very strong mutual attraction from their first meeting but dear lord I got a little tired of Sams incessant thoughts about just how beautiful Gavin is ! If honest I nearly stopped reading and only my memories of just how good the previous books were kept me going. Ok I needn't have worried because yet again we get supporting characters to tickle my funny bone, a very passionate couple who actively enjoy all manner of encounters! Oh and then finally action that felt a little overdue and of course repercussions for all the secrets and lies that brought this couple together. Plus definite hints of what's to come so even though it's not my favourite in the series still a book that I heartily recommend to lovers of romance.
This voluntary take is of a copy I requested from Netgalley and my thoughts and comments are honest and I believe fair

Complex situations, begat by desperation, lies, bad choices, childhood abuse and oh so many other factors dog the pages in this very different story in the Victorian Rebels series. I keep thinking Annie Oakley meets a Scots Celtic god, whose soul holds close hidden horrors a la Dorian Gray. Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne's emotional burdens weigh him down. Although there is no painting in the attic, Gavin has suppressed regrets and terrible memories, that he's spent a life time attempting to forget by cutting a path through the bedrooms of the rich and needy using his exceptional charm.
Samantha Masters was part of a gang including her husband and his brother who are train robbers. This time the robbery goes awry and in the ensuing confusion and aftermath Sam commits murder and exchanges places with an heiress, Alison Ross, and flees to the Highlands, having taken on Alison's persona.
Well of course this cattle herding, fast shooting American gal comes as a complete shock to Gavin who had plans of frightening her into selling her lands to him ... or marrying her. Whichever will work.
Naturally both of their pasts manage to catch up with them, not before a last resort wedding, unexpected attacks from angry westerners pursuing Sam, sexually charged situations, and a whirlwind of emotional angst.
I loved the secondary characters, the gruff shepherds and other members of the clan who take Sam into their hearts.
Certainly a highland historical Victorian era novel with a difference. I am still unsure about the Wild West confrontation with the Highland Warriors but if anyone can pull it off its Kerrigan Byrne.

A NetGalley ARC

Wow, this story was something else. I really liked it a lot! Both of the main characters had a rough start in life and the book clearly shows that in the opening chapters. It drew me into the story to care about what happened to them pretty quickly. They were both INTENSE people. Gavin's charm and "I don't care attitude" covered it but it was there.
I guess another thing I would say is, "Language, Language, Langue!" Both Samantha and Gavin have quite the liking for the "F" word among other things. Sam often shocked those around her with what came out of her mouth. But I really liked her, she was quite the unique person. She had got caught up in some things that were outside of her control but she did the best with what she was dealt. She completely confused Gavin, he had never met any woman like her. And he was used to women falling at his feet as easy conquests. Sam fought him every inch of the way, with both her mouth, her attitude and her guns. And then some things happened where she had to rely on him. I really liked her a lot but had to wonder more than once as she married Gavin, "how in the world is this going to work out?" She was so in over her head.
I just have to say that there were some interesting secondary people in the story; ones that I enjoyed as well.
I will say that it had some dark moments in the story but at least it didn't go super deep into it.
There were plenty of twists, turns and evil villains too.

I received a copy of this book via Netgalley and this is my honest opinion of it.

WOW just WOW! What a delightful, intriguing and unique book. The author does a superb job of writing a story where the wild west meets the highlander. Her skill at combining these two vastly different lifestyles was handled to perfection.

Shock and heartbroken is what I felt when I read the Prologue and I calmed down somewhat when I got to chapter one but I wasn't surprised what the next twenty-four years did to form Gavin's character. How he could take his childhood and create a life that makes sense to him is the center part of this book and it brought to mind the saying "two sides of the same coin". This saying fits both Gavin's and Samantha's characters.

Meanwhile, chapter two creates a solid basis for Samantha's character which expands to a woman with a multi-faceted personality that will delight the reader. Her hard exterior is balanced by a softness that most people never get to see so this makes her the perfect balance for Gavin darkness.

Gavin's brother, the fearsome Lieutenant Colonel Liam MacKenzie and wife, Mena play a key part in this story. Their story is in The Highlander (#3) and it was as dramatic and well written as this story.

This book is full of people making wrong decisions but finding redemption and love while experiencing forgiveness. For this reason, I give it 5 STARS.

Received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review.

Once again, Kerrigan Byrne has penned a raw and emotional page turner. THE SCOT BEDS HIS WIFE, book five in the Victorian Rebel's series, is the story of two lost souls who desire redemption from the sins of their past.

Samantha "Sam" Masters is forced to flee from America after saving the life of Scottish heiress, Alison Ross, during a botched train robbery. Wanted for the murder of her husband, Sam is given an offer she cannot refuse when Alison proposes she travel overseas in her stead. Afraid for her own safety, Sam sets sail to another continent anxious to begin her life anew in Scotland under the guise of Alison.

Gavin St. James, Lord Thorne, needs to wash his hands of the evil MacKenzie blood. Driven to rid himself of his notorious family, he makes a bargain with Sam. Marriage for her land. Unlike any woman he'd ever known, Sam's smart mouth and sassy attitude offer him a challenge that fuels his desire.

Ms. Byrne excels at writing in-depth characters that overcome difficult pasts. She isn't afraid to expose the ugly side of her characters leaving them vulnerable to the readers of her historical romances. I was given a copy of this novel by the publisher for my honest opinion.

Happy Reading!

High 5 Stars! What a Dynamite Tale that will keep you turning the pages long into the night! Gavin St. James is not only an Earl and part of the Ton, he's a wild highlander who hales from Scotland. He's spent his life gallivanting around and flirting and bedding any woman that suits his fancy, even if she is married. He knows that he must settle down and find a wife. It isn't until he battles with a fiery and witty lass who owns the land he desires, that he decides to make her his wife if only to gain the land. Samantha is truly a Lady; however, she's been in the Wild West of the New Land and no longer parades around in fancy dresses but instead dons trousers. Partly, this comes from her time in America but also, she's running from danger. Seeing this marriage of convenience as an opportunity to hide from and escape her past and those who want to harm her. Both enter into the marriage for their own personal reasons but soon begin to fall for one another and a deep passion ensues. Wonderful read and one I recommend to all book lovers!

gavin st. james has spent his entire adult life battling his childhood demons, mainly by raising hell and other general debauchery. his family is a mess. his father an evil tyrant. his mother killed by his father's hand. his brothers seemingly awful replicas of their dad. it makes sense that he meets his match in strong-willed sam. there's a wildness in him that is matched by a wildness in her.

the scot beds his wife throws gavin and sam together when sam comes to the highlands to lay claim to some land. land that she's been charged to keep away from the mackenzies. you see, back in america she did a stranger a favor and in return was asked to take that stranger's place in scotland. the fact that sam is in scotland under false pretenses becomes one of those secrets that we know that the other main character doesn't know for a huge chunk of the novel.

this adds to a sense of dread, because you know things will just happen to fall apart spectacularly. and they do, and part of the joy is seeing them put it al back together. even if it's frustratingly rushed. this is the fifth book in the series and it does stand alone. at the same time when you are this far into a series it feels a bit weird to be only just picking it up.

**the scot beds his wife will publish on october 3, 2017. i received an advance reader copy courtesy of netgalley/st. martin's press (st. martin's paperback) in exchange for my honest review.

The Scot Beds His Wife was my introduction to author Kerrigan Byrne and what a pleasant surprise! This fifth installment in the Victorian Rebels series is absolutely gripping in its storytelling and can be read as a stand alone book, which was the case for me. While the title leaves a bit to be desired, the writing is fluid and riveting to the point that it was easy to become immersed in the plot. Wild West meets Wild Scot would accurately describe the relationship of the main characters, Sam and Gavin. Raised on a ranch and married into an outlaw lifestyle, Sam seeks asylum with the help of a kind stranger and ends up in the Scottish Highlands, never suspecting her hardest battle would be with the neighboring earl, Gavin. The exchange of saucy words and gunfire keep the reader on their toes throughout this story, while endearing them to the painful pasts of all the characters. I dare any reader, once finished with The Scot Beds His Wife, to not go back and read the series in its entirety. That, of course, is my plan and I will anxiously await the next book.

I could barely bring myself to give this three stars. This was a major miss for me with this author, after reading everything she wrote, pretty quickly. Least favorite in the series for sure, especially after The Highlander which I loved.
First of all, the whole American thing was so corny. Train robbers? I mean come on. I feel that first of all, the heroine should have just been the real Alison who got in trouble and was forced to come back to Scotland. This Samantha thing was bad. No problem with the heroine being American or maybe living in America since she was a small child but it was just so corny. Anyone sick of hearing how skinny she was? He kept calling her small, yet she was supposed to be really tall. What? I did not picture her to be attractive in the least, considering how gorgeous the hero was. It was a bit much too, how much that fact was repeated. Samantha was literally the ugly duckling compared to him. Way too drawn out with too much involvement of the secondary characters. Who cares about the old Scottish man and his hermit son? Way too much on that. As someone else said, secrets held way too long. This could not even compare to The Highlander. Hope she goes back to her old magic. She lost it with this one.

I liked this historical read. The story is fact paced with loads of drama, suspense and deception. I liked both Gavin and Sam and they had great chemistry. I found the story to be intriguing as Sam isn’t some innocent Miss that Gavin can just seduce. An interesting story line and an entertaining read.

Gavin was such an arrogant jerk. But I loved him anyway!! Samantha was bada$$ and really put him in his place. More than once. He really didn't know what to do with her because she wasn't like anything he had experienced before. Watching him evolve and earn her was a pleasure. This is such an incredible series.

Sensual, hot and delicously sexy!

There may have been a bit excessive swearing on the heroine's part but swoony, tormented Gavin definitely made up for it. Wonderful banter between him and firecracker Samantha. Very enjoyable!

I always enjoyed the books of this author. However this one didnt catch my interest like her other books. I did n't love the extremelly use of foul language. It was very distracting and giving an armosphere of modern times. A little disappointed with this one. I was given an arc copy via NetGalley.

This is romantic and intense. The storyline is entertaining and the characters are interesting, but it's not as exciting as previous books in the series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Goodreads. This is my voluntary and honest opinion of it.

A lusty, down-to-earth, no frills encounter between a girl from the American West, and a brawny Highlander. The physical attraction between these two is strong, and they will work out anything that gets in the way of getting into bed together.

Once again, Kerrigan Byrne has penned a raw and emotional page turner. THE SCOT BEDS HIS WIFE, book five in the Victorian Rebel's series, is the story of two lost souls who desire redemption from the sins of their past.

Samantha "Sam" Masters is forced to flee from America after saving the life of Scottish heiress, Alison Ross, during a botched train robbery. Wanted for the murder of her husband, Sam is given an offer she cannot refuse when Alison proposes she travel overseas in her stead. Afraid for her own safety, Sam sets sail to another continent anxious to begin her life anew in Scotland under the guise of Alison.

Gavin St. James, Lord Thorne, needs to wash his hands of the evil MacKenzie blood. Driven to rid himself of his notorious family, he makes a bargain with Sam. Marriage for her land. Unlike any woman he'd ever known, Sam's smart mouth and sassy attitude offer him a challenge that fuels his desire.

Ms. Byrne excels at writing in-depth characters that overcome difficult pasts. She isn't afraid to expose the ugly side of her characters leaving them vulnerable to the readers of her historical romances. I was given a copy of this novel by the publisher for my honest opinion.

Happy Reading!

The Scot Beds His Wife was my introduction to author Kerrigan Byrne and what a pleasant surprise! This fifth installment in the Victorian Rebels series is absolutely gripping in its storytelling and can be read as a stand alone book, which was the case for me. While the title leaves a bit to be desired, the writing is fluid and riveting to the point that it was easy to become immersed in the plot. Wild West meets Wild Scot would accurately describe the relationship of the main characters, Sam and Gavin. Raised on a ranch and married into an outlaw lifestyle, Sam seeks asylum with the help of a kind stranger and ends up in the Scottish Highlands, never suspecting her hardest battle would be with the neighboring earl, Gavin. The exchange of saucy words and gunfire keep the reader on their toes throughout this story, while endearing them to the painful pasts of all the characters. I dare any reader, once finished with The Scot Beds His Wife, to not go back and read the series in its entirety. That, of course, is my plan and I will anxiously await the next book.

The Scot Beds His Wife

Wow, what a great story! Ms. Bryne has the most wonderful way of bringing a story to life. The characters in this book have jumped off the page and straight into my imagination. “The Scot Beds His Wife” is unique for a historical romance for many different reasons. I love the sassy, take charge American heroine. Samantha was refreshing, not afraid of hard work, pretentious men, to demonstrate her skills in the saddle or with a pistol, and most importantly not afraid to speak her mind. The hero, Gavin was larger than a regular Highlander, he too was more realistic than a typical romantic hero. “The Scot Beds His Wife” is also different from the usual historical romance as the story did not revolve around balls, gowns, and gossip. The book took me through rough times as well as happy, but I think the situations our H/h deal with add depth to their tale.
This is a standalone novel in the ‘Victoria Rebels’ series, so I was able to understand the story, but I cannot wait to read the other books in the 'Victorian Rebels' series.

High 5 Stars! What a Dynamite Tale that will keep you turning the pages long into the night! Gavin St. James is not only an Earl and part of the Ton, he's a wild highlander who hales from Scotland. He's spent his life gallivanting around and flirting and bedding any woman that suits his fancy, even if she is married. He knows that he must settle down and find a wife. It isn't until he battles with a fiery and witty lass who owns the land he desires, that he decides to make her his wife if only to gain the land. Samantha is truly a Lady; however, she's been in the Wild West of the New Land and no longer parades around in fancy dresses but instead dons trousers. Partly, this comes from her time in America but also, she's running from danger. Seeing this marriage of convenience as an opportunity to hide from and escape her past and those who want to harm her. Both enter into the marriage for their own personal reasons but soon begin to fall for one another and a deep passion ensues. Wonderful read and one I recommend to all book lovers!

Absolutely wonderful! Loved it! The very best of the Victorian Rebels books so far. I fell in love with Kerrigan Byrne's writing style way back when I read her berserker novels. This book has it all - romance, adventure, great sexy times as well as awesome plot and character development. Has been years since I've enjoyed a book this much. I seldom reread books but I will definitely reread this, probably several times. I found myself reading deliberately slowly so as to savor it and not be done too quickly. I just can't recommend this book highly enough. Read it for yourself and see what I mean. You won't be sorry!

Another incredible Victorian Rebels book from Kerrigan Byrne. When I read the first one last year, I instantly became enamored with this author's writing and she's a pre-order/one-click for me now. In fact, she's one of the best writers I've read, in any genre. The action is immediate, the danger is intense and continues throughout the story, the characters are always unique and not the traditional historical hero and heroine. The romances are dark, deep, intense, and incredibly passionate. I adore the tortured souls and how Ms. Byrne leads them to find true love, without having them become a different person in the process--healed, not perfect. I have to admit, I'm a little jealous of Sam...Gavin is delicious. Bravo!

This book doesn't disappoint as Byrne continues her world of Victorian Rebels. Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne, wants out of his notorious family and sees the lush property of Erradale as his ticket to stability for himself and his dependents. To get it he will beg, borrow, steal or seduce it away from its owner Alison Ross. When Samantha Masters is offered a chance to escape the wreck she's made of her life in America by assuming another woman's identity and running to Scotland, she leaps at the chance and pays the price for her impulsive decisions, yet again. This book kept me on the edge of my seat wondering how they were going to work it out even though the secret that was going to trip them up was clear throughout. I was not expecting the last 50 pages though! Holy cow! Now I really can't wait for the next book to come out! Keep 'em coming Ms. Byrne, pretty please!

I enjoyed this story. Great H/h. Solid plot. Very passionate. My issue is the cussing. The first half of the book is full of the heroine cussing and while initially taken aback, H think it's adorable and hot sexy. And I'm no church lady but the problem with the heroine's curse laden dialogue is that it bumps up out of late 19th century smack into the 21st. I might even daresay gratuitous. There's the conflict between her interesting inner dialogue and her cheap outer dialogue. In spite of this, I find these McKenzie brothers very interesting and their stories compelling.

I just finished this series and loved it! So much so I could not put my device down! Please write more because these fascinating characters need to pour forth and tell what happens when Pirate Rook escapes jail, when the half sister reunites with family and if Lady Raven ever happens to find herself with child late in life after all ? I loved the emotional drama of your characters to really help them feel so real. I also have enjoyed the imagination in the story line as well as the funny banter from time to time with the characters.

This was the first time I read Kerrigan Byrne and I found it enjoyable. At first I was a little bit apprehensive with the heavy intro and the heavily created sterotyped characters but I did continue on. They did their trick and hooked my attention. It was rather quick paced and kept me engaged. There were sub stories woven into it that were a nice addition, although one chapter did feel a tad out of pace with the story but she tied it together well. She created a wealth of characters that keeps ones interest. I am now looking forward to going back and reading her previous books in the series. I would recommend it for a good read.
*I received a copy of this book for an honest review.

Great Historical Romance
Highlander, Gavin St. James, Earl of Thorne has decided that he wants to put his past exactly where it needs to be, in the past and wants to turn over a new leave.
Heiress, Samantha Masters, have exactly the same idea, but in her case she decides that marrying, fast, is the perfect solution to putting her secrets in the past and hiding out from what happened to her in the Wild West.
This book had the right amount of danger, love, romance and HOT scenes to keep the reader interested and wanting to know what will happen next.
I received a free copy from NetGalley and honestly will buy more of this author as she really writes a great story and keep the reader invested.

**SPOILERS**

Just another highlander and his lady love, this is not. The danger and intrigue were unique to other works from this series. Kerrigan Byrne's storytelling stylings are enticing, enchanting, and unrelenting when I start to read. I am drawn in and fall for the characters easily.

I greatly enjoyed the 'hitch' in the storyline. An American imposter was a great addition to the highland escapades of Kerrigan Byrne's worlds. Sam is a wonderful character, her pioneer life quite acceptable as possible. Gavin may be one of my favorite gentlemen, but really the wit and sarcastic banter between these two was heartwarming.

Now I need to read the rest of the series, as I have read the first and last.

This was my least favorite story in the Victorian Rebels series, but that is me. It wasn't because it wasn't amazing, but because I loved the other heroes more. However, Gavin's story is just as heartbreaking, emotional, and full of growth.

I cannot wait for the next book in her series. I hope there is a new book because the arrival of a two characters left me at the edge of my seat.

Absolutely loved this story! My first time using audible. So it was even better to be able to listen to it! Kerrigan just gets better and better! Absolutely adore this lady!

Samantha/Allison is my sister from another mister! We are so alike. I really loved her. Gavin is intriguing. But, I will definitely have to side with Sam!

Really enjoyed this read by Kerrigan. I'm normally a paranormal girl at heart, however my main thing is "romance" period LOL so sometimes I like to switch it up when I get tired of my usual PNR (like where everything starts sounding the same?) I know I need a break then. So when I break I like to do Highlander/Victorian/Scottish books as a nice change of pace. I will be picking up the other books in this series so when I'm in a reading slump Kerrigan's writing can take me out of that and get me loving reading again.

This was a great series and it certainly ended on a high note! I loved the complex storyline and the characters were outrageous and sexy. I am so sad that the series is over, but I am sure Ms. Byrne will continue to entertain us with her next series!

I love everything by Kerrigan Byrne!!! And especially the Victorian rebel series but this one was probably my least fave simply because I didn't like Samantha's Character until the end when she eased up a bit haha! Still loved the book though just liked the others more, and so looking forward to the next!

I voluntarily read an advanced reviewers copy of this book

I though that it was a pretty good book. I must admit that it had me sucked in at the beginning learning the back stories of the main characters. I loved how strong both characters were and while they were both fighting to escape their past I loved how great they were when they finally let go and try to trust each other.

The real question is can they both keep their secrets in their past and build a future together? Read and find out!

The Victorian's rebel Saga keeps on giving me good books to read. This time the romance is about the Earl of Thorne and a runaway American. Sometimes the story is a little bit slow, but the author made the reading worthwhile.

La saga dei Victorian's rebel, continua a fornirmi buoni libri da leggere. Stavolta la storia ruota attorno all'Earl of Thorne e ad una fuorilegge americana. A volte la storia rallenta un pochino, ma tutto sommato l'autrice é stata in grado di tenerla in piedi.

Rebel Highlanders and gun slinging American sets up for a fun read! I did not read any other in the series (I will be now!!) but that did not take away from the story. The characters had depth that makes them relatable and had me rooting for them. Passionate and funny leaving me waiting impatiently for the next book!!

The best wedding scene EVER!

Kerrigan Byrne has written my favorite and most memorable wedding scenes. I never thought that Dougan and Farah's childhood handfasting scene could be eclipsed. Well, she hit it out of the park with this book. I shrieked with unremitting peals of laughter when reading the wedding scene tonight.

Samantha Masters is a walking lie and fabrication when she sets foot in Scotland to complicate Gavin St. James, Lord Thorne's plans for expanding his lands. This pistol packing, foul mouthed woman proves to be just what the doctor ordered for the debonair Lothario of the Highlands.

This book is driven by Samantha's need to cover up her secrets. This however becomes increasingly difficult as Gavin bares his own secrets and draws her into his sensual web.

There is so much to love about this story. There are Wild West cowboys in the Highlands. There is the irascible Liam MacKenzie and his lovely wife, Mena. We get another perspective of the horror that was Laird Hamish MacKenzie. We also meet the infamous Rook! I can't wait to see what Byrne does with his story. So many characters! So many stories that need to be told.

I just can't wait for the next installment.

In “The Scot Beds His Wife”, Kerrigan Byrne writing blends adventure, suspense and romance to create a wonderful love story. Her storyline is perfectly executed and intrigued me from the first chapter through the epilogue. Sam and Gavin are well written characters that are fully developed and multidimensional. Their love/hate relationship, verbal sparring and physical attraction make for a great read. Gavin has major family issues based on his relationship with his deceased father. Sam is living a lie and is on the run. Their past history together complicates their relationship. It was how Ms. Byrne’s well written plot resolves their issues and the several added surprising twists that make for an enjoyable romantic read. I highly recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley for my honest opinion. It was my pleasure to read and review.

Samantha Masters seals her fate when she pops a bullet between her husband's eyes to save stranger Alison Ross.
Alison Ross is a well off Scottish heiress who wants to stay in America but has promised to never let the Mackenzie clan get her family's Scottish lands. together they hatch a plan with benefits for both. Samantha goes to Scotland masquerading as Alison, saving her from both the federal marshalls and her brothers-in-law, and also claiming and protecting Alison's lands.
They never saw Gavin Mackenzie coming...and he was totally unprepared for Alison aka Samantha.
Gavin and 'Sam' worked together on the land he wanted, even as the magistrate he was trying to push his own agenda. She was in awe of him and angry at him at the same time, creating some humorous and some testy moments. He found her amazing by how much she actually knew about ranching and her ability with a gun.
When she realized her husband had gotten her pregnant the day she shot him, she accepted Gavin's proposal believing it would be her babe's best chance.
The brothers-in-law show up and create havoc and sins of the past catch up with Gavin, after he throws her out. When he gets of out prison (quickly) due to Sam's and his brothers intervention, he runs after her to make things right.
A wonderful historical romance with colorful characters and rich descriptions. I loved it!
I requested and received from NetGalley to my delight, an ARC copy to peruse.

The Scot Beds His Wife
by Kerrigan Byrne

Let me start by saying that if YOU haven’t read a Kerrigan Byrne novel, well let’s just say you’re seriously missing out! This was by far such a great story, so much going for it i loved Samantha she’s such a wonderful fiery spunky woman. She’s no wilting flower there’s drama, some angst witty banter lots of high paced action and so many secrets. And let’s not forget the electrifying chemistry between Gavin and the notorious spitfire Samantha. But in true Kerrigan Byrne fashion everything comes to a wonderful soul satisfying ending. I highly and I mean HIGHLY recommend this book!
I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley for my honest unbiased opinion.

I received an advance reader copy in exchange for a fair review. Devin's childhood was one of extreme abuse by a brutal father. Because of this he closed his heart to love. In walks Sam who is everything he would not look for in a woman. She is tall, very slender, very vocal and they butt heads at every turn. The book is full of secrets on Sam's part, murder, sabotage, humor and eventually love. It is well written and a good read.

The Scot Beds His Wife (Victorian Rebels, #5) Is the first book in this series that I have read...I now have to go back and read the first four. This is Gavin St James ( The Earl of Thorne) and Samantha aka Alison Ross aka Honey's story. Keep me on the edge of my seat and hating to put it down...I did not see how they could get to their HEA...but they did. I really enjoyed this book.

I have thoroughly enjoyed they Victorian Rebels. Gavin the younger legitimate son of old Hamish is trying to emancipated himself from the Mackenzie clan and needs the neighboring estate to become self sufficient. Sam is an orphan, also now a widow, since she shot and killed her husband to save Alison Ross during a train robbery. Sam takes on Alison's identity with her permission and settled on that neighboring estate. She's pregnant and finally agreed to Marry Gavin, the Earl of Thorne. Her dead husband brothers find her and all her secrets come out followed by Gavin being arrested for smuggling. She leaves for Holland after he trolls her she's nothing to him and when he gets out of jail thanks to her and his brother Liam he chased her down, changes he name to Bonny and married her all over again. Allison Ross has discovered her mother was raped by old Hamish and that she is a Mackenzie and is coming home to the Highlands. Oh, the baby was a girl they named Ellie. I hope there are more books in this series to come.

A Spoiler Alert in my description.......I really did not care for this story along with the characters in it. Gavin was alright but Samantha was not likeable for me. I didn't care for the language and attitude. She's suppose to be this macho dude lady? There was no charisma between the two except a pretense of fighting but they are attracted to each other and all along being pregnant? I found myself skipping not only paragraphs but pages . Deceit through out the entire story did not make a romantic read. This was the worst of the series for me. The best part was the last two or three chapters and the Epilogue.