Highland Brides (The Highland Brides) - An English Bride in Scotland

This was a pretty easy, light read as far as I'm concerned. Definitely not heavy, epic romance. Just a fun, easy read. It reminded me a lot of the Julie Garwood books I inhaled back in my young adult years. Sometimes very amusing or funny, sometimes somewhat suspenseful, An English Bride in Scotland was a pleasant enough read for me. But not one I'd absolutely recommend as a bookshelf favorite. In the end, I could take it or leave it.

After very nearly taking her vows to become a nun, Annabel is "rescued" at the last minute by her uncaring mother and married to the man who was supposed to be for her older sister. But her sister ran off with another man, so Annabel's parents have to provide a bride or else. Since Annabel was all but raised in a convent and thus knows nothing about actually running and managing an estate, it makes for an amusing and endearing plot which I'm sure many historical romance fans will really enjoy.

I did find the heroine to be a boring Mary Sue. She was fine, I didn't hate her, but there was very little that made her stand out. At one point in the book, she gets herself into trouble by running off unprotected, after suspicious attacks had previously threatened her, for some flowers...after the dog farted up a storm in the castle...because she fed him cheese. That's the sort of "conflict" this book has. And in the end, I felt the villain's story was a bit over the top.

I get a little bored with these "same old" romances: Mary Sue marries handsome, tender hero, practically harmless villain threatens heroine's life a few times, everything works out in the end. Meh.

I liked the hero well enough, though this book seemed very stereotypical to me as far as the characters go, typical Scotsman romance novel hero. All around, I'd recommend this if you're looking for an easy going, but interesting enough historical romance read. It's nothing mind blowing, but it makes for an entertaining afternoon read. I did enjoy the writing style and tone of the novel, and the intimate scenes were well done.

This story had a good heart, and that made it very enjoyable for me. Other reviewers have pointed out some issues that could diminish the enjoyment for some - some anachronistic elements; somewhat clumsy attempt to convey a Scottish brogue; lots of people getting hit on the head; some "too stupid to live" moments, especially on the part of the heroine. Nevertheless, I felt that Ross and Anabel were decent people who deserved happiness - with each other.

I could imagine the 7-year-old Anabel being essentially tossed out of her home by her horrible parents to live in a cold abbey and eventually take the veil. The poor thing didn't understand the abandonment - and then to have her mother show up 14 years later to rush her off to marry a total stranger in her sister's stead... but that turned out to be the luckiest thing in her life.

Ross is a strong, honorable man who quickly understands the treasure he has in Anabel. He is kind and patient, and tries to build her confidence as she stumbles every now and again adjusting to her new life. Their relationship builds nicely, though over a relatively short period.

The tension in the story comes from the attempts made to kidnap and then harm Anabel. No one can figure out the motivation behind the attacks, and when the perpetrators are revealed, it isn't necessarily a shock, but it is a betrayal.

No, this isn't a literary work of art, and it is far from perfect. But its heart is in the right place and sometimes that matters more.

Whoa, I had never read anything by Lindsay Sands before, so I wasn't expecting such a romantic book. But whew, Ross is the perfect guy in every way -- handsome, sensitive, gentle with his wife, protective - all the stuff most women dream about. Heck, he even looks good in a kilt! But before I get a hot flash or something, let me get to the summary:

Annabel is a second daughter of the gentry, and her sister is already contracted to a Scottish laird. Annabel isn't the cutest kid that ever lived. She's chubby, as so many children are, and what about it? (Sorry, I get riled when kids are treated badly because of their looks) The solution to the second daughter problem? What problem, you ask? Why, the problem of having a chubby little girl who hasn't gotten engaged by the advanced age of seven. The solution is to send her to a convent, where she will study Nun stuff and take her vows when she is of age. (That Annabel isn't suited to be an obedient nun is beside the point) That way, the parents get credit for having a religious in the family, and no one need spoil their vision, looking at her fatitude. Problem solved.

Oops, Problem unsolved: Just before Annabel takes her vows, and as Ross is about to come and collect his non-chubby bride, Kate, the bride to be disappears. That's okay, let's just grab Annabel from her convent and have her marry the guy. After all, these brides are all so interchangeable.

After that -- well, I'm not going to say. It's a romance, you know how it ultimately ends. The fun is getting from the bride substitution to the end, and I'm not giving it away. It's a great ride, though, and getting a box of chocolates and this book is the second most perfect way to spend a rainy Saturday. (The best way - you'll just have to guess that for yourself!)

An English Bride in Scotland is the first book in Lynsay Sands's new series. Set in the Scottish Highlands, this story delivers all the things we Highlander historical romance fans want in our reading; humor, excitement, passion, love, and hot, hunky, men in kilts. And out of kilts. Especially out of kilts.

The Story -

Annabel's life was decided for her when, at seven years old, her mother left her at Elstow Abbey where it was expected she would grow to an age then take the veil to become a nun. Things didn't progress as planned, however, because Annabel had problems following the rules. She wanted to be good, she really did, but she just never quite measured up.

Then one day, out of the blue, her mother arrived to take her home, as it turns out, to marry the Scottish Laird her older, runaway sister was betrothed to. Annabel had been raised to be obedient in all things, so she didn't really question this or put up a fuss, but that didn't mean she wasn't concerned. She had no idea how to run a keep or be a wife, but knew she'd have to learn. And in the Abbey she'd heard frightful stories about how painful and distasteful the whole marriage bed bit was, but she decided that'd be something she'd just have to endure.

Laird Ross MacKay wasn't thrilled to be saddled with an English bride, but one look at the shy, lush, Annabel, and all Ross could think about was getting her into bed - even though he knew she wasn't the woman he'd been betrothed to since childhood. Why the Withrams were swapping daughters on him, he couldn't say, but all he wanted to do was claim his sweet, curvy bride and return home to his clan and life with Annabel at his side.

My Thoughts -

Lynsay Sands is the author of the insanely popular Argeneau vampire series, but she's also penned some historical romance novels. I've only read two of them, this one included, and I have thoroughly enjoyed them both. Ms. Sands writes heroes and heroines who feel so real, it's easy to forget that they're just characters in a book. They laugh, they cry, they learn, they love, and they often make me do the same.

One of my pet peeves in Highlander HR is when the authors fail to give me enough of that sexy Scottish brogue I love so much! That's not a problem in this book, though, as the dialogs are full of ayes, nays, no', ha'e... Well, you get the idea. I love that! And there's also enough talk of daily life in a Highland castle to keep my feet firmly panted in the past - which is exactly where I want to be while reading.

The Bottom Line -

Lynsay Sands is one very talented writer, and if you're like me and want great characters and entertaining stories, you should definitely give her a try. Whether you're in the mood for hot, hunky vampires, or sexy men of the past, you won't want to miss her stories! I'm very much looking forward to the next in this series!

My thanks to Avon Books for providing me with a copy of this story in exchange for an honest review!

I loved the premise of this book. Annabel, who's been training to become a nun, is suddenly whisked away to fulfill a contract her sister ran out on to marry Ross, a Scottish Laird. Overall, I liked the characters, the setting and the story.

Why did I give it a 3 out of 5? It's hard to put in to words. There were parts of the story I LOVED. The beginning? I adored it. But then there were parts that were so...predictable maybe? Like Annabel is constantly being kidnapped, or threatened, or chased. And every time it happens, Ross tells her she has to stay at the castle until they capture who did it...and every time she 'finds a good reason to leave'...and it happens ALL. OVER. AGAIN. It's a big part of the book. I think overall it happens about 5 or 6 times. It becomes a little draining after about number 2 or 3, and you kind've want to skip ahead.

Annabel is very likeable, and so is Ross. And I think they work well together! And while I predicted the ending, to a certain extent, you're still pleasantly surprised how everything turns out. There are also a few parts that you think, that really didn't just happen, did it? But overall, a very nice read, and I'm glad I gave it a go.

Just when I'd decided I don't like romantic novels - especially the historical kind - along comes a delightful book/story which held my attention and made me root for the hero and heroine.

Annabel, younger daughter of what could charitably be called a dysfunctional family, is placed in a convent at the tender age of 7, and hasn't seen her family in 14 years. Her personality - she's willful and seems disobedient to the Abbess - have kept her from formally "taking the veil" at the convent, so when a family tragedy occurs, she is whisked away from the convent and finds herself married less than 48 hours later. Her groom was originally promised to her older sister, who has disgraced the family by being deflowered by the stable master's son, and running away with him. Thus Annabel will be passed off as the eldest daughter (her parents have disowned the first born) as technically she now is.

The ways of wifedom, castle management, etc. are unknown to her, so she fears her husband will soon send her back home, but as it should be in romance novels, she charms him and his whole Scottish clan. The sex is hot and she soon embraces her lust - making her even more treasured by her husband.

There's a subplot of frequent attacks upon her and husband, but that's all resolved by the end. The characters are sweet and the story interesting. I liked it far more than I expected to.

This is the first book by Lynsay Sands I've read but it won't be the last. This is a wonderful story, full of wit and hilarious scenes that will have you chuckling. The romance is hot and steamy, and the characters are fun. Ross, the hero is a big burly hunky Scot who was promised in this marriage to an English girl. Annabelle is the heroine who literally was raised in a convent with a sadistic abbess as the bane of her existence. All at once her mother shows up to force her into the marriage meant for her older sister. The sister ran off with a stable boy and so they forced Annabelle to marry Ross instead. Her new life as a married woman is such a contrast to the convent she feels truly blessed and actually happy. Annabelle is a sweetheart of a heroine that your heart bleeds for from page one. She fears her new husband will be disappointed by her lack of knowledge of running an estate, but one and all she wins them over with her self sacrificing attitude and kind nature. It also brings out how terribly burdensome the rules that the Church put on even married people where intimacy was concerned. Yet, even having to overcome these too righteous ideas Annabelle finds she is totally entranced with her new husband and actually enjoys, 'the bedding.' There is a mystery of someone constantly trying to attack his wife, and Ross is determined to protect her but I will not spoil it for you. This is a joy of a book. You will not regret reading it. I myself plan to buy more by this author.

An English Bride in Scotland answered my need for a historical romance with a rough man in it, if possible a Scotsman. I trust Lyndsay Sands to have a fun storyline and intelligent and surprising characters. I probably expected to much here. ..

The overall story is ok, but not extraordinary. Annabel has been living for the last 8 years in a abbey being prepared to become a nun until one night when her mother comes to pick her up to get married instead of her sister with a Scottish laird.

They fall in love, he takes care of her in a sweet way, helps her accepting that she is the right one for him, there is a lot of sex and danger as both of their lives are threatened by an unknown man.
The last 1/5 is about solving who is threatening them and why.

There is the same structure like in other of Mrs. Sands’ books, but it is not as fun as the others, sadly;
I don’t regret the read, the book is good, but Mrs. Sands could have written a much better story.

Enjoy the read MBTM

I have so looked forward to reading this book for quite some time, and I was not disappointed in the least.
I love Lynsay Sands whether its her vampires or her highlanders, she is just an amazing author.
I highly recommend this book to any Historical Romance lover!!
Annabel was funny, kind and innocent. Raised in a nunnery, then carted off and married to a Scot she was scared to death, but so inquisitive on the journey to her new home. The way she behaved on the way to her new home had me laughing out loud. Her mother scared her into not telling her husband the truth, about her & her sister and about being raised by nuns.
Ross, was not your typical highlander that we usually see in our Historical Romance novels. I loved that, he was so different, he was kind and caring right from the beginning. It didn't take something dramatic happening to Annabel for him to realized how he felt, he showed her feelings and tenderness from the very moment he saw her. Fabulous!!!
Although, there of course is trouble surrounding the couple. Ross (and Annabel) tries to figure out who is causing the trouble, and then wow total surprise!!! Lets just say without ruining anything, that its a total shocker at the end.
Won this copy in author's contest.

This romance is charming and sweet (with a little steaminess) by any standard. But I some people don't want to read romances with a lot of premarital sex and this one is perfect for them as Ross and Annabel don't have sex until after the wedding.

It is also one of the more clever takes on the arranged marriage romance trope. Annabel has been living in a convent since she was a young child and is expecting to take her vows as a nun when her mother comes to take her to marry a Scottish laird in place of her runaway older sister. They marry that very day and head back to Scotland.

Ross and Annabel are very "nice" characters and grow fonder of each other over the course of the book. Someone keeps following and trying to kidnap Annabel so there is a little mystery as well. The typical obstacle that keeps the romance hero and heroine apart until late in the book is not really a bid deal in this book. It isn't the kind of romance that will leave the reader crying with happiness at the "happily ever after" but it is a charming and sweet book.

There are some mildly steamy sex scenes but readers who want really "hot" sex scenes are going to be disappointed.

I liked this romance and will keep the author on my list of people to follow.

Geez... I really don't go for the Scottish guy thing ever since the romance novels where the Scot is like a caveman - sling girl over shoulder, toss her in the hay, and all she's good for is for pleasure and following orders. I gave this one a chance because I liked the description.

Annabel was really a lovable heroine as the lady who hasn't been in this world and is suddenly slung into the marriage - and the marriage bed. She's very practical about everything. "Well, I haven't been taught this, but I'll figure it out!" And I like that in a heroine instead of the o-woe-is-me approach.

The beginning of this book catches you so fast, you just have to know what happens. I love Ross and his cohorts. His castle servants even pull at my heart strings.

The love scenes in this book are graphic, but loving in a way you would hope your husband would treat you. If only men would read this puppy - and take notes! Again, contrasting with other Scottish romances, Ross is kind and fair - not demanding. He shows his passion, but it's in a way that makes you think he really cares for the lady.

As for the villain of this book, I totally did not know who it was till the end and I like being surprised like that. Great read!

This was such a sweet story and I absolutely loved it! I started this book thinking I would just read a few chapters and do something else... that did not happen! I couldn't stop and read it in one sitting. Ross was such a great hero, I liked that he was strong but also caring towards the heroine. Annabel, the heroine was so relatable and absolutely hysterical!
I felt the plot moved smoothly and kept me glued to the page. The romance was sweet and felt like it developed throughout the story. I will be checking out the rest of this series!

Review originally posted on Goodreads

An English Bride In Scotland
Lynsay Sands
Avon, Jun 25 2013, $7.99
ISBN: 9780061963117

Lady Withram arrives at night at Elstow Abbey to take her daughter Annabel home to Waverly for a night or two. A confused Abigail says her home is the abbey as she wonders why her mom has taken her from her bed of fourteen years; in all that time not a word from her family. Mother refuses to answer any questions except her sister Kate is the reason she must come home as her sibling has runaway just before a Scottish laird was coming to marry her.

Laird Ross MacKay has no problems which English Rose will be his bride. Annabel feels more comfortable at the stables than managing a home or sleeping with a man. Ross and his clan find her naive efforts charming and soon accept her as a Scotswoman. As they fall in love, Kate comes home.

An English Bride In Scotland is an enjoyable medieval romance due to the amusing relationship between the lead couple. Although the premise is overused and the protagonists are inconsistent (ranging from brilliant to moronic), subgenre fans will enjoy Lynsay Sand's humorous historical.

Harriet Klausner

Annabel Withram was about to take her vows to become a nun when her mother unexpectedly fetches her from the convent where she lives. Her sister Kate has run off with the groom's son and the Withrams cannot afford to get out of the marriage contract- so Annabel is to marry the Scotsman instead. Annabel has been trained to be a nun, not a wife, and knows nothing about running an estate or anything about men at all. She also doesn't want to tell her husband WHY she knows nothing about running a household- he has no idea she has been in a convent for the last 14 years and she has no intention of telling him. On top of THAT, someone is trying to kidnap her, or kill him, or perhaps both.

This is a wonderfully entertaining novel and I enjoyed every page. I usually don't enjoy it when a romance novel tries to be a mystery novel, but this was pretty well done. I loved watching Annabel trying to keep the past a secret from her husband. The characters were well developed, and I especially liked the hero, there were hateable villains and an actual plot. Satisfying read, I will look for more from this author.

This book started as many of Lindsay Sands stories do. I loved the way this book started out. Our heroin is a misguided innocent,in every sense of the word. She believes herself to be fat and ugly reinforced by her "parents",I use that term lightly. It is a true underdog story. The hero is handsome, brave, and gentle. That what makes him all the more sexy as he falls in love with Annabel. The story had parts that made me laugh out loud. I was at work, on break, when this happened so many people were in the caffe.Heads were turning, I just blew it off by saying funny story. The part by the river, when Annabel gets her bath is classic Sands. That I love but as the story progressed and a certain family member made its appearance the little,fat girl inside me was so mad Annabel handled things as she did. I wanted to see more spunk especially when messing with the lairds junk. I couldn't believe it was played off as it was along with the fact Annabel wasn't killed immediately upon capture. It wasn't believable, not that I wanted that. The end, as well, seemed rushed in general which is why it got it 3 stars.

An English Bride in Scotland by Lynsay Sands (Audio Edition)
Narrated by Mary Jane Wells
Series: Highlanders #1

4 stars - This story felt like one of the highland romances that I first fell in love with. It was easy to love the characters, and easy to hate the enemies. Add in some witty dialogue, humour and sweet chemistry and I say it's a win! If you're a fan of Julie Garwood’s highland romances, I think you would enjoy this book.

Mary Jane Wells did a wonderful job on narration as always!

~Paragraphs and Petticoats~

Annabelle was dumped in a convent when she was 7 years old by uncaring parents who wanted her to become a nun. 14 years later, she is still not a nun because her behavior keeps getting her punished, so she's considered unworthy. It's a good thing, too, as her sister has left her promised bridegroom to run off with a stableboy. She's removed from the convent to take her sister's place. Said bridegroom is handsome, kind, Scottish Laird Ross MacKay, who, unknown to the family, realizes the switch but marries Annabelle anyway. Annabelle has never had anyone think she's anything but an unnatractive screwup, so she worries about her lack of looks, housekeeping skills, and pleasing her groom. This is a formula we've seen before, but Annabelle is a gutsy, charming character who's sweet without being saccharine, and Ross is a sexy, good-natured, earthy guy who tries to help his convent-bred wife deal with real life. There's a mysterious villain too to make things more exciting and show Annabelle's courage. It's an enjoyable read.

I really do not like the cover art for this book. I just does not fit with Annabel at all. First of all she's curvy and shapely, and apparently has uncommonly big boobs. Cover art does not represent. A hot ripped guy in a kilt, well doesn't that cover just about any era???

Annabel and Ross have a strong spark of a connection right off. His warrior self wants to protect her and apparently she does need protection. Annabel was close to her oath as a nun when her family pulled her out to cover their butts when her older sister Kate skipped town to avoid the arrange marriage between her and Ross. Kate's loss I say. She gets some stinky ol stable boy and Annabel gets a hot and horny Scot...lucky girl.

Anyway, the story progresses and the love between the newlyweds blossoms and blooms but bad stuff is happening and a final scene is on the horizon. Fitting if a little corny ending to the book but I liked it. Good book to read quickly. Not a masterpiece but fun altogether. I liked it.

This was a bit zany with its set up, but I sort of enjoyed that.

Annabel is absolutely the least favorite child of her parents--who are terrible parents. As soon as she was old enough they shipped her off to a convent, as she wasn't the prettier of their two daughters, and therefore unworthy of being wed. However, when her older sister runs off instead of making the marriage match they had planned they yank Annabel from her convent pre-nun-life and have her marry him instead.

Luckily Ross doesn't really mind the switch--well, once he finds out. However, they are living in the midst of some dangerous times in Scotland and her runaway sister seems to have found her and is demanding the royal treatment (that of course, should have been hers).

I enjoyed the give and take between Annabel and Ross, the characters had a really nice dynamic and both characters challenge the other to be better. An enjoyable read, I'd read other titles by this author.

Another "hysterical historical" from one of my favorite authors. Poor Annabel is packed up at the tender age of 7 and sent to live in a convent. Now 14 years later she is still a novice and has yet to take the veil. She isn't a very good nun. (Think Maria from The Sound of Music). All that is changed when her elder sister runs away with the stable masters son leaving her parents in a lurch. They had promised their eldest to marry Ross MacKay and he has come to collect. So Annabel is abruptly pulled from the abbey to take her place. She is totally unprepared to be a wife and lady of the manor. But those things that made her a bad nun may be just what she will need to the wife of the MacKay. Now if the big guy in the plaid would stop trying to kidnap her.
This is a sweet, funny romance. It is obvious that Ms. Sands has done her research and had a great deal of fun with it. A little romance, a little mystery and a whole lot of fun.

This was a very quick light read that was enjoyable. Like many other Lynsay Sands historical books, it had a lot of humor scattered through out the book. Both the hero and heroine were likable characters and the supporting cast was well written. The heroine being an oblate was an interesting twist and added some fun moments to the story. My only complaint ( and it isn't a huge problem) was the story was predictable. As soon as the villain showed up, I knew who it was. It was all just a little cookie cutter. That being said, if you want something light and enjoyable, definitely think about picking this book up.

Basically tossed away as a child by uncaring parents to an abbey, Annabel assumed that at some point she would become a nun after having spent the last 14 years of her life in said convent. But obedience was a trial for her and the head abbess didn't particularly care for Annabel. As it turned out it was a good thing Annabel hadn't taken vows, as her mother came racing to the abbey and dragged her back home to get Annabel ready for a wedding that her elder sister Kate had been promised for. Annabel's elder sister Kate, the beautiful one, had eloped with a stableboy; disowned by her parents; and Annabel was expected to take her place, as promised in a long ago contract, as now being the eldest daughter.

*** I am so happy that Ms. Sands is finally returning to her historical genre roots! I discovered Lynsay way back in her hilarious medieval days with books such as THE KEY, and THE DEED then followed with her sexy vampires in the Argeneau series, but her historicals are what hold my heart. With AN ENGLISH BRIDE IN SCOTLAND Ms. Sands has recaptured the zest, freshness and wonderment of finding humor in the trials and tribulations of living in medieval Scotland.

Annabel was a wonderful heroine. Sands expertly played the emotional card with how one would feel sorry for a child who at seven years old was dropped off at an abbey and left with never a visit from her family until fourteen years later. Annabel's only fault - being a chubby child? Wow, how easy to relate to that! Along with Annabel, totally at a loss as to what was happening so fast it made her head spin, was the saving grace that her betrothed, Ross was essentially bowled over by her beauty and demeanor. When Annabel's life was threatened, Ross was determined to turn the Highlands upside down to protect her.

The cast of secondary characters, the numerous scenario's both humorous and emotionally wrought with suspense and danger, made this a totally delightful read, and extremely hard to put down. And of course, the very best part of any book is being surprised by who the villain in the piece turns out to be when you were thinking in a completely different direction!

Bottom line: I am so happy Ms Sands has come back to writing more historicals! AN ENGLISH BRIDE IN SCOTLAND is just a fabulously entertaining novel and so very much recommended!

Marilyn Rondeau, for www.ck2skwipsandkritiques.com

Lynsay Sands is a skilled and talented writer, but she makes a rare misstep with this tale. Fans of an authentic medieval atmosphere will find an anachronistic feel here that can be distracting. Also, while her upbringing makes it understandable, the heroine is very easily manipulated by her own naiveté. She makes the common mistake of ignoring all common sense and putting her safety at risk several times, danger that could have been avoided if she had just done what she was told. There are humor and appealing love scenes, but overall this is one to miss.
Heather Nordahl Files at adcmagazine.com

I love Lynsay Sands writing! She's hilarious, fun & it's always a great story. This one holds true! Annabel is a just a joy of a heroine ~ happy, funny, loves life...and thinks she's going to become a bride of God. When her sister runs off with the stable boy and jilts her betrothed, Annabel's mother gives her to Ross. Ross is an awesome hero, who is trying to keep his new wife safe and just adores her.

I've waited years for Ms. Sands to get back to these great historicals; In the nature of The Key and The Deed this is just a flat out FUN read!

I have never been a fan of historicals, but I love Lynsay Sands, so I thought I would give An English Bride in Scotland a read. I swear L.S. must write with a big smile on her face because her lighthearted, feel good writing, just shines through onto the page. No one leaves a Lynsay Sands book with a heavy heart. This was a cute, amusing story, about a kilted hunk, and a daughter no one wanted. Although I love her kilted hunks, I like mine with fangs, so I will be sticking to her paranormal series, which is brilliantly funny. A nice change of pace, but not my favorite from Ms. Sands.

I don't have to repeat the summary from the back of this book for you to understand the plotline of An English Bride in Scotland. You want to know if this romance was worth the purchase price?! "Aye," says I, "pick up this romance because you will thoroughly enjoy this ride."

Who doesn't love a braw Scot?! Take highlander perfection then pair with an English lass, a twist here and there and voila! Attention catching plot makes this book hard to put down. Loved the chemistry of the protagonists and the secondary characters were irresistible. You will not regret the journey this book provides.

Happy reading!

Annabel is about to take vows as a nun but is summoned home to take the place of her sister in an arranged marriage to a Scottish laird. How rude! I can imagine if I were all geared up to be a nun, getting married would be a serious change of plans. Not to mention, not even getting a say in the matter. But Annabel makes the very best of this, and virginal though she be, she's instantly attracted to her husband. (Romance novels!)

From there, add in kidnapping and surprise twists and you have a nice romance novel to snuggle up with a cup of tea on a rainy weekend.

If your like me and you like to read books about characters that are a little naive, innocent, determined, hardened, and passionate then this is the book for you. I love reading books by Lynsay Sands and this one didn't disappoint. Sand's ability to write memorable characters is nothing short of remarkable.

This book reminds me of bubble gum pop. You know while you're reading that it's cheesy as all heck, it's terribly unrealistic, the characters (and their romance) are incredibly contrived, yet it's a bit entertaining at the same time.

At the start of the book, I found the naivete Annabel exhibited as a result of her life in preparation for becoming a nun rather charming and amusing. Ross's instant attraction and desire to protect her from her selfish and uncaring parents was sweet. However, the language the characters use, the affected Scottish dialect, and the ridiculous scenarios that come one after another started to get annoying after a while.

Without spoiling the story, I have to say I sort of hated the end and thought the author meted out one of her punishments rather fairly but the other was just not acceptable to me. I think this was supposed to be a very lighthearted romance, but the ending sort of killed that for me. I've enjoyed some other rather amusing books (The Switch,Love Is Blind (Leisure Historical Romance)) by Lynsay Sands, but this one was a disappointment to me.

I actually enjoyed this book it was pretty fast paced and it easy to get into. The characters were likable and the fact that the hero actually like the heroine from the beginning was a plus. I loved how the table turned on the villain. Annabel was sent to a abbey at the age of seven then her mother comes to collect her and tell her she's getting married to her sisters betrothed. What happens when she meets Ross and he learns of her family deceit, what happens to her parents and where did the runny away bride really run away to?

This is my first Lynsay Sands novel. I really enjoyed Annabel and Ross' story. It's well written with an engaging plot, and three dimensional characters. There is a wonderful blend of romance, humor, and intrigue. The story moves at a nice, quick pace, and kept me engaged from cover to cover. A solid 4 star read! Annabel is sweet, feisty, and fearless. Ross is all sexy alpha male and totally devoted to Annabel. Wonderful read!!! FYI, this is absolutely not a clean romance. Happy reading!

I had someone hand me this book and say that I needed to read it. It is well written and the writing style is great to read. The author moves right along in the story and leaves no real down time. My problem was the characters, they were a bit too unwilling to learn from past mistakes. At the end of the book my final words were 'those two should not have kids'.
I will definitely read another Lindsay Sands novel.

This is one of those historical romances that just make you smile. The bad people are seriously unlikable and the good ones make you laugh.
Annabel was raised to be a nun but brought back to honor a marriage agreement when her sister skips out on the arrangement. She has no clue how to run a house and her new husband is partially in the dark about her past.
There is someone out to capture Annabel but no one knows why.

This is a fun, enjoyable and fast read. I recommend it highly for those reasons among others.

I have loved basically every book Lynsay Sands has written and this one doesn't disappoint.

An English Bride in Scotland is about Annabel whose parents took her to an abbey when she was 7 to become a nun. Fourteen years later her mother comes to pick her up to wed a (delicious) Scottish laird in her sisters place. Annabel is a strong heroine that is smart, capable, and just a little bit of a trouble magnet. Our hero Ross MacKay is perfect and they have great chemistry.
If you love Lynsay Sands other books definitely buy this one, you will love it! If you have not read any of her books beware that once you start you will not be able to stop! (Don't be afraid this is a good thing!)
I for one am anxiously awaiting any and all upcoming releases! :)

"An English Bride in Scotland" is a sweet, sometimes sappy romance with all the trademark humor and hunky hero that Lynsay Sands can whip up. Annabel is a "very innocent" (of the abbey kind) heroine caught in the marital dilemma her sister created when running away from the commitment of marrying a Scottish Laird. The Laird is strong, virile and very protective of his new
" replacement bride". The romance made for a very enjoyable read.

The overweight heroine, as she's been constantly reminded by both her mother and the abbess in the convent where she's lived for fourteen years, takes very impious joy in the delights of the flesh--food, riding horseback, and, as she discovers, in the hunky person of the husband she never thought she'd have.

A romp in every sense of the word, An English Bride in Scotland is FUN! I enjoyed every lighthearted.bit! Set your expectations for realistic history aside and just wallow in the exuberance of this story!

I have always enjoyed the stories from Lyndsay Sands and this book was no exception. Annabel is not your typical Oblate. She is always wearing a hair shirt for some transgression and seems to always be doing something to upset the Abbess. When she is suddenly pulled from the Abbey and taken back home she assumes it is for a visit. Upon arriving at her former home she learns that she is to take the place of her older sister to fulfill the marriage contract to a Scottish Laird. Her older sister Kate has run off with the Stable master and since her parents have disowned her she is now considered dead to them so that they can use Annabel to fulfill the contract. Since she has been at the Abbey since she was seven years old she has no idea how to be a wife, a lady or how to run a castle. She has always been told she was the "fat, ugly sister" and struggles with this issue. Ross is arriving to accept his bride after suffering through the death of his father and fighting to keep his place as Laird with other clan members. Now that things have been settled he has come to collect his bride. After being delayed for a few hours upon arrival he has just decided to leave without his bride when she is presented to him. While Annabel has been told how fat and ugly she is Ross considers her beautiful and exactly what a Scottish wife should look like. What follows their quick marriage is a series of events that seem to do nothing to help Annabel feel more confident, (like running from a strange man in the woods with her dress stuck around her head and knocking herself out with a tree), and make Ross wonder whether the events are isolated or connected. In the end you have a very funny love story that while predictable is still very entertaining. The process that Annabel goes through to try and become a good wife and lady of the castle is both genuine and humorous. Ross is a gentleman through and through and realizes early on that his wife is charming all his kinsmen without even trying. Just as with her other historicals she keeps you alternating between tears and laughter enjoying this wonderful story. I am always disappointed when I get to the end!

I've read other works by Lynsay Sands, and I like her formula. Her novels are predictable, but fun with fairly well-developed characters compared to others in the romance genera. I read this one in one setting, and enjoyed it. The bride being married to a man she initially does not love is fairly commonplace in the romance genera, but it works. The love scenes are well-written and hot without being too smutty. Overall, well done! I intend to read future works by Sand, too. She has a fan!

This just plain isn't for those of you looking for a deeply emotional read. Rather, this is "feel good" lit that could be considered chick lit. It does have just enough of a mystery plot to satisfy those looking for more than a run-of-the-mill romance. Annabel is a delightful character and the writing style is smooth and enjoyable. Okay, it does get a bit "silly" and misses being truly memorable, but hey, it is a bit of fun and this is Summer, the right season for this type of book.

This is one of those historical romances that just make you smile. The bad people are seriously unlikable and the good ones make you laugh.
Annabel was raised to be a nun but brought back to honor a marriage agreement when her sister skips out on the arrangement. She has no clue how to run a house and her new husband is partially in the dark about her past.
There is someone out to capture Annabel but no one knows why.

This is a fun, enjoyable and fast read. I recommend it highly for those reasons among others.

I have loved basically every book Lynsay Sands has written and this one doesn't disappoint.

An English Bride in Scotland is about Annabel whose parents took her to an abbey when she was 7 to become a nun. Fourteen years later her mother comes to pick her up to wed a (delicious) Scottish laird in her sisters place. Annabel is a strong heroine that is smart, capable, and just a little bit of a trouble magnet. Our hero Ross MacKay is perfect and they have great chemistry.
If you love Lynsay Sands other books definitely buy this one, you will love it! If you have not read any of her books beware that once you start you will not be able to stop! (Don't be afraid this is a good thing!)
I for one am anxiously awaiting any and all upcoming releases! :)

"An English Bride in Scotland" is a sweet, sometimes sappy romance with all the trademark humor and hunky hero that Lynsay Sands can whip up. Annabel is a "very innocent" (of the abbey kind) heroine caught in the marital dilemma her sister created when running away from the commitment of marrying a Scottish Laird. The Laird is strong, virile and very protective of his new
" replacement bride". The romance made for a very enjoyable read.

The overweight heroine, as she's been constantly reminded by both her mother and the abbess in the convent where she's lived for fourteen years, takes very impious joy in the delights of the flesh--food, riding horseback, and, as she discovers, in the hunky person of the husband she never thought she'd have.

A romp in every sense of the word, An English Bride in Scotland is FUN! I enjoyed every lighthearted.bit! Set your expectations for realistic history aside and just wallow in the exuberance of this story!

I have always enjoyed the stories from Lyndsay Sands and this book was no exception. Annabel is not your typical Oblate. She is always wearing a hair shirt for some transgression and seems to always be doing something to upset the Abbess. When she is suddenly pulled from the Abbey and taken back home she assumes it is for a visit. Upon arriving at her former home she learns that she is to take the place of her older sister to fulfill the marriage contract to a Scottish Laird. Her older sister Kate has run off with the Stable master and since her parents have disowned her she is now considered dead to them so that they can use Annabel to fulfill the contract. Since she has been at the Abbey since she was seven years old she has no idea how to be a wife, a lady or how to run a castle. She has always been told she was the "fat, ugly sister" and struggles with this issue. Ross is arriving to accept his bride after suffering through the death of his father and fighting to keep his place as Laird with other clan members. Now that things have been settled he has come to collect his bride. After being delayed for a few hours upon arrival he has just decided to leave without his bride when she is presented to him. While Annabel has been told how fat and ugly she is Ross considers her beautiful and exactly what a Scottish wife should look like. What follows their quick marriage is a series of events that seem to do nothing to help Annabel feel more confident, (like running from a strange man in the woods with her dress stuck around her head and knocking herself out with a tree), and make Ross wonder whether the events are isolated or connected. In the end you have a very funny love story that while predictable is still very entertaining. The process that Annabel goes through to try and become a good wife and lady of the castle is both genuine and humorous. Ross is a gentleman through and through and realizes early on that his wife is charming all his kinsmen without even trying. Just as with her other historicals she keeps you alternating between tears and laughter enjoying this wonderful story. I am always disappointed when I get to the end!

I've read other works by Lynsay Sands, and I like her formula. Her novels are predictable, but fun with fairly well-developed characters compared to others in the romance genera. I read this one in one setting, and enjoyed it. The bride being married to a man she initially does not love is fairly commonplace in the romance genera, but it works. The love scenes are well-written and hot without being too smutty. Overall, well done! I intend to read future works by Sand, too. She has a fan!

This just plain isn't for those of you looking for a deeply emotional read. Rather, this is "feel good" lit that could be considered chick lit. It does have just enough of a mystery plot to satisfy those looking for more than a run-of-the-mill romance. Annabel is a delightful character and the writing style is smooth and enjoyable. Okay, it does get a bit "silly" and misses being truly memorable, but hey, it is a bit of fun and this is Summer, the right season for this type of book.

It must be said that I am a huge Lynsay Sands fan. Granted this book follows the same pattern as the majority of her other books with a few slight differences. But it's cute, funny, endearing, and incredibly enjoyable. I always know that I will enjoy whatever she puts out. And I LOVED the hero in this book. He's just freaking wonderful and the heroine is so sweet and a little naïve that you can't help but love her too. Can't wait for the next of her historicals.

Well, my title for the review pretty much sums up what I think of "An English Bride in Scotland," with the emphasis on the word silly. The heroine Annabel was ready to take vows to become a nun when she was snatched out of the convent by her mother in order to marry Ross McKay, a Scottish laird who was supposed to be marrying her sister. The sister has run away to marry another, of whom the parents do not approve, therefore Annabel will have to do to keep the laird happy. Annabel is naive, sweet, and not a little stilly to boot. She has some idea of the duties that she will be expected to perform as McKay's wife, including having an heir. And being of that time period, she is aware that childbirth sometimes ends in death for the mother as well as the child, but I doubt that in England of the Middle Ages she followed that thought with the phrase "women get the short end of the stick." In trying to create a Scottish accent of that period, Lynsay Sands has McKey using a lot of "ye's" and "yers" and ends up sounding somewhat like a geezer, even though he is young man. When sister Kate reappears she is the total opposite of Annabel, with no redeeming qualities. But by the time the evil sister put in her appearance, I really did not care -- I had lost interest in the book due to the, to me, unamusing antics of the characters.

Having talked with and met several published authors, I know that they generally have little or no input into the cover art. It is unfortunate that the wedding gown Annabel is wearing is not correct for the time period, as when I first saw the cover, I assumed this was a Regency romance (the dress as a vague Regency look), not a book set in the Middle Ages. I do try not to judge a book by its cover, but the inconsistent look was offputting. It might not bother other readers, and was not the reason I gave the book two stars.

I can't say enough good things about what a great guy Ross is or how delightful and real Kate is.

29 year old Kate was the younger daughter sent to a convent as a child and now 20 years later her parents pass her off as her older sister with her sister's fiance.

Their journey to happily ever after is wonderful and fun without any of the negatives you can find in a romance.

Keeper!

Poorly written and attempts at authentic language made for a miserable read. Too many unnecessary descriptions (like what would have happened if someone had been stabbed in the head) or when a joke was told and the author felt the need to explain that another character understood it. Barely got through it so won't be finishing the series.

I absolutely loved this historical romance.It has a little bit of romance,love, danger, suspense. All right, a lot of those things and it captured my attention right away, pulling me into the story and routeing for the English Bride. Raised, for the most part, in a long ago convent, away from worldly things, then thrown right into the middle of it. So if you want a fast ride into Scotland, this is for you. I'm so enjoying this author's work. I was given this book from the author in return for an honest review.

There is yet to be a book by Lynsay Sands that I do not love.
In this lovely tale of and Oblate/almost NUN.. that is being given to a Scottish Laird. The speech is what bring you into the story and of actually BEING there. The humor is constant and the action is gripping. Several times I LOL and scared the cat sleeping on my lap.
This is a MUST READ!

I've been lucky to read a few really great historical romances in the past, one being a novel. This is not one of them. However, if you're looking for a fast PG16 day read...and don't mind characters getting bopped on the head all the time...you might like this. I'm generally a sucker for any Brithish Isle romance; this one left me not feeling as good as the main characters. The action takes place in a brief week and a half, hardly enough time for characters to marinate within the story let alone with each other.

The story is loaded with stereotypes like a classic fairytale. There is nothing deep or meaningful about the plot or the characters.

Sometimes it is very relaxing to read a book with no object but to entertain. This book was enjoyable; I liked the main characters, and the satisfying resolution reminded me of The Gift of the Magi. I'm glad I read it!

Annabelle is a curvy young lady with poor self esteem. Ross is a perfect Scottish laird. It's a quick read, with fun characters and some pretty great sex. It's no masterpiece, but very entertaining. All's well that ends well.

I totally loved this book. Yes Ross was obsessed with Annabells breasts, but I just chalked it up to Ross being a breast man. I loved the characters and the plot was excellent. It's well worth reading.

I love books with a historical setting and this was no different. It was the first book I've read by Lynsay Sands and was a fun read. I'm giving it two thumbs up! I will definitely read more books by her.

I had a hard time with this book due to all the stupid people,I just can't relate. The female was so dumb I couldn't stand her. Examples: I know I have been attacked two time but I'm going to ditch my guards and leave the keep all by myself,I'm going to trust my mean evil sister (who says things to hurt me and oh us tried to fill up my husband package) after saying sorry once and sure you can put me in a box to do what again? Oh ya leave the keep by myself again now after 3 times some one has attack me and my husband. Now the husband I liked to a point,taking his wife for the first time in the woods,did not like so much. Or let's have sex in the barn after some one was attacking my wife, again stupid. Story could have been better.

As the overkill of the supernatural goes on & everyone is a vamp, shifter, or a God..I loved this book.
It was refreshing & humble all at the same time. The fact that it made me laugh out loud made my day.
With a big smile on my face, I'll be glad to buy this to pass on to my friends.