| Title | : | The Devil of Dunakin Castle (Highland Isles, #4) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | 1640633723 |
| ISBN-10 | : | 9781640633728 |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | ebook |
| Number of Pages | : | 252 |
| Publication | : | First published November 13, 2017 |
Englishwoman Grace Ellington has made a home in Scotland, but to escape from the meddling people around her who seem to think she needs to wed right away—because women need saving, right?—she volunteers to journey north to aid a friend in childbirth.
Keir MacKinnon, the younger brother of the MacKinnon clan chief, has been raised to strike fear in people, on and off the battlefield. Trained to uphold MacKinnon law, he has hardened into a lethal warrior. Caught in a Highland blizzard with the feisty Grace, Keir realizes the beautiful woman who saved him can also save his nephew’s life.
Sparks fly when he takes her against her will to his home, and Grace’s courage is put to the ultimate test. Is Keir MacKinnon the passionate, kind man she saved in the Highland blizzard, or is he truly the cruel executioner who seeks to solve all issues by the sword?
The Devil of Dunakin Castle (Highland Isles, #4) Reviews
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I’m pro recycling, but not in books.
This book is extremely similar to her book Highland Beast, I guess she wrote this one first and then tried it again with her newest. That’s unfortunate but I guess you can’t plagiarize yourself. This one was tighter, less boring and had better action overall, but something about this author’s plotting never quite wows me. This was a good, mindless listen because the narrator is amazing, but without him I think I’d be underwhelmed.
Notes on the similarities between this book and Highland Beast
1. Both heroes are the bringers of death or executioner for their clans.
2. Both were forced into the role by their fathers and are tortured by it.
3. Both heroines are healers; this one on the way to deliver a baby, the other one a midwife
4. Both heroes wear a scary mask when bringing the death(tm)
5. The heroine is the only woman not afraid of the hero because she doesn’t know who he is.
6. He keeps a cabin on the outskirts of the keep because the entire clan is terrified of him.
7. The meet cute involves a wolf attack and the heroine up a tree.
I’m actually glad I read this one after the newest one, because that was an arc and I would have had to trash it rather than just not loving it. I remember thinking the idea so original, ha! Please authors, find new ideas and keep track of your previous books. It’s great to have a consistent style, but recycling plots, characters and themes this closely is annoying to loyal readers. -
My first book after pretty much a two week slump interrupted only by some really shitty choices for reading.
I don't actually remember how I stumbled across this. I mean it's usually a friend who's reading it or it showed up in my recommendation or something like that but I just don't remember.
I do remember why I picked it up though. I read the blurb and instantly
Julie Garwood's
The Secret popped in my head. So obviously, the Julie Garwood Highlander whore that I am, how could I resist the temptation?!
Hi, I'm Umaiya and I'm addicted to Julie Garwood's historicals but especially her brand of Highlanders and I.REGRET.NOTHING.
(Hmmm. Yeah this would be my version of an AA meeting introduction.*nods head all serious like*)
Now despite the 3.5star rating I actually, surprisingly really enjoyed the writing. The plot was interesting too, I mean I could always point out something lacking but the writing!
Just the other day I was talking to my new friend, Brenda and we were just discussing our mutual devastation over Julie not writing any more historicals and her new stuff not being all that good and how we just about literally ate up all here old writing.
And then this falls in my lap and right now, I swear! It must have been a sign from God cause Damn! Heather McCollum's writing took me back all those years to when I first fell in love with these real bonny Scottish Highlanders.
Now you have to admit, what with all the background I gave you, this is high praise indeed! This would have been easily a minimum 4 star rating if it weren't for how the plot was executed. But I'm also being incredibly nitpicky and critical because it didn't quite fit into the mould I have in my head. And I really, really wanna tell you all the ways it didn't but I don't wanna give any spoilers! *wails real loud*
So somebody READ.THIS. and have a full blown book discussion with me! NOW!
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So Mei brought to my attention how my review's a very non-review and that kinda gotta stuck in my head. This is why we have friends. Thanks, Mei! :D
So first things first, this a stand-alone in a series. Which means, like me, you don't have to have read the other books in the series to pick this up.
Our h is Grace Ellington an English woman who moved to Scotland to be closer to her sister. Grace, maybe like a lot of us, feels like a side character in her own story and longs for a great adventure. She was so easy to relate to. There's this part in the very beginning where Grace is talking to her sister Ava and I don't have words to say how much this spoke to me.Grace sighed as she fingered through her damp hair. Ava reached across for her other hand, squeezing it. “What’s wrong?”
Grace shook her head. “Everyone is having babies. You, Rose, even Mairi now up on Barra Island. People are falling in love, marrying and starting families, moving on, and I’m just…falling in the river.”
Our H is Keir MacKinnon, The Devil of Dunakin Castle, the enforcer of Dunakin, the boogie man of all boogie men. From an early age he's been raised to honour duty above all else. Now my interpretation was a little different. I'd say he'd been raised to be a mindless killing machine, capable of two and only two things. Following orders and being as cruel as possible.
But Grace herself probably defines Keir best.He’d memorialized the lives he’d taken, using his own skin to mark their passing. The Devil of Dunakin, a warrior who remembered those fallen. Powerful and obviously fierce, but with a heart of compassion for a family of wolves out to kill him. A man willing to help a woman stranded in a blizzard.
That's pretty much how they met. Keir saved Grace from a pack of wolves during a blizzard and in turn Grace patched him and his horse up after said wolves thought to make a meal of them.
Now the blurb basically tells you what happens next so I'm not gonna hash that out. But I will leave you with a little something that I hope isn't very spoilery and just enough to intrigue you into getting the book. ;)"'Tis an old legend that says the very last Devil of Dunakin will die after an angel pierces his heart."
“Oh,” she whispered and inhaled past the fear tightening her throat. “Hello.” He stared up at her, a crease forming between his brows.
“I am dead,” he said. “Finally.”
Finally? Did he wish to die?
His lips rubbed together, and she felt him shift, his gaze connected to hers. Before she could utter anything, his hand came up to cup her cheek. “And ye are my reward.” -
Before I begin my review, I have to say that this book had the absolutely best dedication I have ever read and that dedication is reiterated in the note from the author at the end of the book. It was beautifully done and really touched my heart.
This book has all the elements I love in a story: humor, action/adventure, a misunderstood hero, steamy love scenes and a heroine that you can’t help rooting for.
Grace has been a secondary character in the previous books in this series, she is the sister of Ava, the heroine of the first book (
The Beast of Aros Castle ). Grace has always been portrayed as meek and even a bit weak, she has many fears and considers herself a coward, but inside she longs to be strong and have adventures of her own. When an opportunity to leave Aros arises, she jumps at the chance to leave and secretly hopes that she will find her own adventure. She leaves with an escort to travel to Barra to help Mairi with the birth of her child. But on the way, she and her escort are caught in a storm and take shelter at the inn. When her escort Thomas becomes ill, the healer in Grace takes over and she ventures out in the storm to find herbs to treat Thomas. But she gets turned around in the blizzard and soon finds herself lost and alone.
Keir MacKinnon is on a mission, he is on his way to Aros to bring back Mairi MacLean the famed healer. Keir is the brother to the chief and his nephew is gravely ill, he will find the MacLean healer and bring her to the Isle of Skye – no matter what. Keir is known as the Devil of Dunakin, the fierce warrior and executioner of his clan. When Keir hears a scream while on the way to the village, he tells his friend Brodie to go ahead to the inn and turns back to investigate.
What he finds is Grace surrounded by wolves. Injured while trying to save her and then knocked unconscious, Grace knows she cannot leave him to die. She tends his wounds and those of his horse and then begins to make a shelter to protect them from the storm. When Keir awakes, he is shocked to find Grace on him and asks if she is an angel. When he realizes that he is not dead, he leads them to a deserted cabin. Over the course of the storm, Grace cares for Keir and when he finally wakes, she is smitten. They spend time to together and the attraction grows. Just as things begin to heat up between them, Brodie shows up.
Grace learns that Keir is planning on taking her with him and is furious. But along the way, she learns much about Keir and is shocked by the way people treat him. She tries to stay angry, but her heart goes out to this man.
When they arrive at Dunakin, Grace faints at the sight greeting her, but when she recovers, she agrees to treat Keir’s nephew, Lachlan. But the news is not good, not only is the boy sick, but now his father, Rab is also showing signs of the illness. When Grace learns the cause, she has no one she can trust except Keir. And she is not sure she really knows who Keir is, is he the sweet, gentle man who saved her or is he the killer his clan deems him to be. Grace decides that she does trust Keir and together they form a plan to weed out the villain.
The plan works perfectly, except it also implicates Keir’s sister and Rab orders Keir to execute her. Grace is horrified for Keir and seeks him out. When she finds him, she learns his deepest secrets and knows that she loves him. She begs him to refuse to kill Dara, knowing that it will be the act that finally destroys him. Keir loves Grace, but he feels there is no future for her with the “Devil” and tells Brodie to return her to her family.
Desperate to save Keir, she seeks out the one person she believes will help her and learns of a clan legend – that the Devil will be killed when an Angel pierces his heart. To save the man she loves, Grace will have to overcome her own fears.
This was such a great story, the book is well written and flows great, has lots of action, steamy love scenes and a great ending. While this book is the fourth book in the series, I think it could easily be read as a standalone title with no real problems. But, if you would like a better understanding of Grace’s character, I would recommend reading the first book (
The Beast of Aros Castle ), before you read this story.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me by NetGalley and the publisher* -
Great characters
This whole series had great characters. Keir and Grace were a perfect match and even when he took her to his home, unwillngly, she still cared for him. he didn't think he could be anything but the executioner. The Devil and arm of the clan. His brother was crazy though. He lost his mind when he lost his baby and wife and it was actually quite sad. I loved how grace would curse when she was scared or stressed. It was pretty cute. She truly was brave and she pierced the heart of the Devil of Dunakin Castle and they lived happily ever after. -
Good story.
No intimate scenes other than the Hero and heroine.
Breadcrumbs dropped for secondary characters to have their own story.
HEA.
Epilogue. -
"'Tis an old legend that says the very last Devil of Dunakin will die after an angel pierces his heart."
This is hands down my favourite book of the series. Where in previous books, the title of the book is another name given for the hero; for this book, The Devil of Dunakin Castle is actually a position bestowed or rather forced on the hero.
We finally get Grace's story who was introduced in the 1st book. Since then she has blossomed living among the Macleans, learning how to protect herself. Yearning for an adventure, she set off to attend to a friend in childbirth but was waylaid in a blizzard and met with Keir who is intending to kidnap a healer.
I like their introduction, trying to protect and shelter each other. It shows Grace, Keir's true character and not the mask he wore as the Devil of Dunakin. Because if the Devil of Dunakin does everything that he is rumoured to do, I'm not sure he is even redeemable.
The plot in itself is very simple and straightforward, no surprises on who the villians are except as to how "the angel pierces the devil's heart". (I thought it was a metaphor) What makes this book enjoyable is the romance between Grace and Keir, with Grace's distress seeing as to how Keir has to put on the "Devil" mask all the time and Keir's weariness on shouldering the burden of being the "Devil".
Plot: 4/5
Characterisation: 5/5
Prose: 4/5
How much I enjoyed it: 5/5
ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair review -
2 stars
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Grace, an Englishwoman, needs to escape the life she's made in Scotland to stop the constant strains of those around her believing she needs to marry, that she isn't complete without a man in her life.
Keir, the MacKinnon clan chief's younger brother, has lived his life fulfilling the purpose he was raised to uphold...instill fear in those who encounter him, whether he's on the battlefield or not.
When Keir and Grace meet, and are stranded together, due to a blizzard, not only are they attracted to one another, but Keir also realizes she's the perfect person, and perhaps the only person, that can save his nephew's life. He'll do anything for his family, and so, knowing it may be his last chance, he kidnaps Grace and takes her to his home, intent on making her help him.
Now, as the two get to truly know one another, Grace will discover which side of Keir is the true him, or if they both are.
Can Grace save Keir's nephew? Will Keir let her go whether she does or not? Is Keir's attraction to Grace real, or is he manipulating her to get what he wants? Will these two find a HEA together? Or will Grace run from him the first chance she gets?
**I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book.** -
Just re read.!
I read this book the first time and gave it ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ but since
I rarely give 5 stars.
I thought I need to read this again, but after a second read it is solidified, it’s true 5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
I love the characters H is the ultimate masculine man, Keir is just awesome and is pared beautifully with that sassy, talkative former Sasanech ( she has fully converted to a bold Scottish lass. Beautifully written, the love scenes where steamy the dialogue fabulous. I hope you wrote Brody and Keira sister Onar a story. -
I reread this book after reading and enjoying books 1 and 2 from the series. However, I still didn't enjoy it. I'm not sure why.
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This is my first read by Heather McCollum, and I'm sorry that I haven't already read the rest of the Highland Isles series. I quite liked this one! If you are just discovering this author like me, I don't think its absolutely necessary for you to read the earlier books. There are some references to events in earlier books, and maybe a slight spoiler, but nothing major.
Our heroine is an English lass, Grace Ellington, who has been living on the Isle of Mull with her sister (heroine of a previous book). The only thing I missed by not reading the earlier books was Grace's backstory. I wanted to know how she got to Mull, what happened in her past (it was referenced a few times but not explained), and how she became a healer. While Grace had a couple of reluctant moments early on, she didn't grind on my "reluctant heroine" nerve, and I liked her quite a bit. She was assertive and not afraid to speak her mind, particularly when it came to our hero. She was intelligent and kind and brave. All great qualities.
The hero is the fearsome Devil of Dunakin, Keir MacKinnon. Keir is the enforcer and executioner of Clan MacKinnon, and wears proof of every death upon his body. His formidable reputation and appearance make people quake in fear, and not many would dare to cross the MacKinnon clan because of him. But Keir is not made of stone, and he was a good and honorable man beneath that rigid exterior. I loved the peeks we got beneath the devil's mask, and I liked his character just as much as Grace.
The relationship between these two was a bit hot and cold. There was undeniable chemistry, but Kier's duty to his clan kept him at arm's length much of the time. I was so happy when Grace started seeing more than the image that Kier projected, and was able to find that good and vulnerable center. I loved that she was determined to save him from himself, and the situation he was placed in by duty to his clan and chief. With our assertive and vocal heroine, this story ended up being a bit more steamy than the typical historical romance - which was just fine by me.
I am not usually a huge fan of male narrators, but I really liked this one. Tim Campbell brought our Scots to life, and I loved his accent and deep voice. He was able to affect a passable female persona as well, which is usually my biggest hang up with male narrators. I will definitely look for more of his narrations in the future.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from the pubisher, Tantor Audio. -
Review For: The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum is Book Four in the "Highland Isles" series. This is the story of Grace Ellington and Keir MacKinnon. I have read all the books in this series (and LOVED THEM!) but feel this can easily be a standalone book. Grace is the daughter of the Earl of Somerset and has inherited an Estate down in York England but she prefers to live at a cottage on the edge of Aros village near her half sister Ava. Grace has taken to learning to heal people and with that comes some independence. But between the village people, her sister and even the blacksmith Thomas thinks she should give in to her suitors like Gavin and marry. But Grace wants more than that. Grace is looking to overcome some of her fears and go on an adventure. Also Grace would like the passion she sees with her sister Ava and her husband along with Mairi and her husband. Grace decided to travel to help Mairi with the birth of her child. Thomas elected to escort her there but along the way he started getting sick and when they stopped in a Village, Grace went to get something to help Thomas she meets Keir. Keir is traveling to find the famous healer to help his sick nephew. Keir is the youngest brother of the Chief of the Mackinnon clan on the Isle of Skye. Keir is a strong man who brings discipline to his clan members and fear in his enemies. But he does stop to help Grace when she is trapped by wolves but get hurt in the end. So Grace helps to heal him which gets Keir to thinking that she could help his nephew and he will bring a healer to his nephew by any means possible. I am so happy to read Grace and Keir story, it just added a little more love I have for this seires!
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Peut-être 3,5/5.
Un peu déçue car tout est relativement classique, mais quelques grosses ficelles (notamment concernant le "méchant" et l'histoire autour, qui est digne d'un scénario écrit par un gamin de CM2).
J'avais souvenir dans le T1 d'une héroïne fragile et qui avait peur de tout, on peut dire qu'elle s'est bien lâchée depuis ! Elle est même un poil vulgaire durant ses relations physiques, j'en ai été presque choquée mdr ! -
This was the first book I have read by this author, but will definitely not be the last. This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone book. Englishwoman, Grace Ellington, has made a home for herself in Scotland. She has honed her skills and become proficient in defending herself but yearns for adventure. Everyone seems to be trying to get her married off, so to get away, she sets out to help a friend who is about to go into childbirth. On her way, she gets caught in a blizzard and ends up saving a a warrior, Keir MacKinnon. Keir , called the Devil of Dunakin, is known as one of the strongest warriors of his clan (or always has been until he meets Grace!) Grace is in trouble and becomes lost and in need of rescue but in trying to help her, Keir is knocked unconscious and Grace ends up saving him! They get to a deserted cabin nearby and Grace takes care of the warrior until he wakens. Needless to say, they become attracted to each other in such close quarters, how could they not? Keir ends up taking Grace to his home so that she can heal his deathly ill nephew. Along the way, they get to know each other and Grace becomes upset at how it seems his clan treats Keir Arriving at the castle, Grace is shocked to find out what is making the nephew ill. Secrets, mystery and intrigue are all woven together and a killer is on the loose. Can Grace and Keir find out what is happening before it is too late? The author is a master at making the characters come alive and keeping you turning the pages as fast as you can. The descriptions and emotions are deep and have you guessing until the end. This is a wonderful story that should not be missed!
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The book begins with a blizzard to bring together our two main characters. I enjoyed the circumstances in which grace needs saving and in turn has to tend to her wounded warrior. Soon after that, it turns into a lustful tryst where the characters act like modern day people who happen to live in the 16th century. I was glad this portion was short lived as I enjoyed the dialogue between Grace and Keir. It was a mix of honest moments and witty banter that played well into overall story.
I found Grace to be too wanton for a maiden of those times. She’s inexperienced and grew up in a proper English household and yet she begs to be taken by a mere stranger (whom she’s known all of a week- most of which he was unconscious for). In all of the romantic scenes I found her character to be too much. I think the purpose was to show her as a progressive, independent young lady. She came across that way in other scenes just fine, but I felt these particular scenes weren’t in keeping with the era.
Keir was a great hero. Outwardly he is big and brawny, striking fear into all those around him. But Grace gets to see his heart and knows that “the devil” he’s made himself appear is really an act.
The plot is heavily centered around Grace and Keir falling for each other, but there are also moments of suspense and intrigue as well that help move the story along.
I’d be remiss not to mention Brodie, Keir’s cousin, second in command, and friend. He brings in a great balance of comedy and truth and I wouldn’t mind seeing him get his own book in this series.
I liked that this book could be read as a stand-alone, but think reading the previous books may give a greater enjoyment when some of the minor characters are mentioned. -
Full review appeared on Reader's Edyn on 11/18/17
Grace Ellington is an English woman from the ton, but has left and moved to Scotland to be closer to her sister. She has been taught quite a lot in healing and now helps others with the skills she has learned. On her way to help a friend with her upcoming birth, she becomes lost in a blizzard and is rescued by Keir. She nurses him back to health following their ordeal, and decides to accompany him to try and improve his nephew’s failing health, but is annoyed when he absconds with her before she even has a chance to reveal her plan to him. Keir holds a fearful reputation, but she sees much more than that within him. While he is indeed in possession of some frightening skills, she can’t help but see all the good in him; having cast judgement prior to discovering his identity. When a dastardly plot is uncovered surrounding the mysterious illness within Dunakin castle, she vows to stay until the traitor is exposed. But another evil exists within the castle and only Grace has the power to save Keir from it. She’s going to save him, or die trying.
Keir MacKinnon (Devil of Dunakin Castle) has been bred for evil. The enforcer of Dunakin, his legend spreads far and wide, full of all of the nefarious deeds and deaths he is responsible for. Duty above all else. He used to believe that, but lately he has been questioning the motives behind the wicked actions he is ordered to carry out. He knows there is a better way, but he is torn with what he knows versus what he has done his entire life. Grace is something he never bargained for and sees him in a way no one has ever dared before. She also doesn’t fear him the way others do and they connect on a level he never imagined possible. The Devil doesn’t live happily ever after – a family would be a weakness. After determining the traitor within their walls, he has another punishment to deliver that is causing a war within himself. He knows his orders, but carrying out this particular command will destroy the man inside … Grace is his only hope – and even Keir doesn’t realize just how true that is.
This is my first book by Ms. McCollum and it definitely won’t be my last. I absolutely loved this book and the world within. Ms. McCollum took a somewhat familiar plot and then jumbled it all up to give it her own unique spin. I really enjoyed Grace and her uncommon departure from England; choosing instead to remain in Scotland with her sister and take up the craft of healing others. She’s a walking contradiction displaying fear in several instances, but strength in others. I don’t think even at the end, she realized just how strong she truly was. Keir is one of the most endearing characters I have come across in a while. He is the personification of strength – protector of all people and things Dunakin – enforcer of punishments handed down from their leader – a man who understand right and wrong versus necessity and survival – at war with his inner self, knowing his recent punishments have been unjust. He’s pretty much everything an alpha male should be. But his life isn’t his own; ruled by obligation and the decisions handed down from his older brother, Rabbie. Grace walking in to his life was exactly what he needed, having been questioning his role for some time, she helped him see things in a new light. Hard versus soft, They are seemingly opposite in every way, but for them, it works perfectly.
This book does a fabulous job of combining two people from different worlds with a bit of mystery and a crazy amount of sexual tension. Grace knows what she wants despite her lack of experience. She’s got a foul mouth on her and every deliciously dirty thing that spills from her lips only makes Keir want her more. She is truly one of a kind with her wanton desires and she isn’t afraid to act on them. Neither is Keir opposed to showing her more about them. Probably my only complaint was the lack of knowledge surrounding Grace’s decision to leave England. There is a bit mentioned about abuse from her brother, but it is never really discussed at length about what happened, or why she didn’t return following his death. Her fear of water is a direct result from him, but she never even discusses that with Keir besides a casual mention about staying away from it. I did quite enjoy watching each character grow and morph into the person they wanted to be. And Keir’s cousin, Brodie is also a brilliant addition to the cast of characters. I’d very much like to see him with his own story; especially given his new responsibilities. Overall, this is a wonderful historical romance with charming characters and an engaging plot that I am thrilled to have been able to read. If all of Ms. Mcollum’s stories are this delightful, then I just might have a new go-to author on my hands. Lovers of HR with a Highland twist are sure to be pleased by this tale of a brooding hero in desperate need of rescuing by his one true match.
Kindle version provided by Entangled/Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. -
The devil has a tough act to follow, my fellow Scottish romance book loving friends. You see, having read all the books in this series so far, The Wolf got 5 wolf whistle stars from me and The Beast and Rogue were not far behind.
The henchmen could also be used to describe Keir, the hero/perceived devil of an enforcer, whose assigned task is to carry out his laird brother’s decrees of punishment to anyone who crosses the clan’s rules, including neighboring enemies and fellow clansmen. Of course, we get to see the softer side of this tough guy’s persona and find out things are not always as they seem.
This “I want to go on an adventure...I want to be brave” heroine’s mantra at the beginning came across a little like Frodo wanting to leave The Shire in Lord of the Rings. Yeah, they both got more than they bargained for, folks. No, she didn’t almost fall into a fiery inferno, but that dunk in the icy river probably felt similar to her. You see, this English lass may be wild about Scotland’s beauty, but she is not a fan of its bodies of water. There was an attempt to use this to add a slight touch of extra drama near the end, but along with the odd Avenger type costume she switched into, I found her coming across rather silly instead. Her words would have simply sufficed. She has a good heart though and is a straight shooter in expressing her opinion.
Unfortunately, there were some other bumps in the road that lowered my rating. Their first almost intimate encounter at 30% had Grace unrealistically wanton considering her innocent state. It simply felt too much was unleashed at once, especially her smexy talk. It’s not a good thing when I found myself wanting to look away and feeling somewhat embarrassed for her. Of course, this devil of a mountain of muscle and tattoos loved every second of it. Including at 75% when it happened again. To me, it felt overly fabricated for the sake of being erotic. I also wasn’t a fan of how she confessed she got her first lesson in learning how to be lusty. Sorry, honey, but confessing to being a peeping Tom is just not cool.
Well, not surprisingly, Grace doesn’t take it graciously when Keir becomes a cur and whisks her away for his own reasons. Up until near the end though, the writing and story seemed to flow and was very engaging. You sensed Keir’s pain and reluctance to continue living the life he had been assigned. But the devil is always in the details, some of which left me feeling rather lost and not overly impressed with how the ending was scripted. Not so much regarding what transpired, but how it was written. Mainly starting with the show down with the traitor scene, which is a dang shame since I enjoyed the majority of this book. Perhaps since I read an advanced reader copy, it was edited before final publication.
Just know, overall, I did enjoy this series, and here’s to hoping you will feel the same.
Title: The Devil of Dunakin Castle, Series: Highland Isles (Book 4), Author: Heather McCollum, Pages: 233, stand-alone but part of a series, enforcer type hero who hates his job, healer heroine who ends up having to point out the obvious, a few VERY steamy scenes, some graphic violence, romance safe, entertaining but rather predictable. Rating: 3.5 stars
Romance Safety Gang:
Book 1 - The Beast of Aros Castle, (Tor and Ava), Pages: 266, 2/20/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 2 - The Rogue of Islay Isle, (Cullen and Madeleine), Pages: 238, 5/15/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 3 - The Wolf of Kisimul Castle (Mairi and Alec), Pages: 229, 8/14/17
https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
Book 4 - The Devil of Dunakin Castle (Grace and Keir), Pages: 233, 11/13/17
(I received a free advanced reader copy provided via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. No type of compensation was given to this reviewer, nor is there any relationship/affiliation between the reviewer and the author/publisher/NetGalley.) -
I have read all of Heather McCollum's works and I have to say this one was amazing. The two characters have so much depth to them you really feel all their emotions. Not too mention I think this is the "Hottest" book to date from Heather. WOW!! Usually the hero is hot (looks and actions) well this heroine (once a secondary character from The Beast of Aro Castle) is just as hot in everything from her talking, actions and her passion...this Lady left nothing out. You knew what Grace was feeling & thinking and she doesn't apologize for one minute. Just the way her Hero wants it. The secondary characters made you feel so disgusted with them, whoa I was shocked how I could detest fictional characters. Really, the scenes Heather wrote about you could feel the shock and smell the stench and truly hate the bad guys! Even when some of the bad guys were suppose to be good guys... That is writing substance.
The Devil (Keir) is the second son of the Laird of MacKinnon. He is raised to be the enforcer of the Laird. When punishment is handed down he is the one who doles it out. He is also the protector of the Clan. He is told to bring back Mairi Maclean (a healer) now MacNeil and heavy with child, since his nephew is dying. He is on his way when a blizzard hits in the town of Kilchoan. There he finds a Lass about to be killed by some wolves and goes to save her, not realizing he is going to be "saved" by the Lass. Grace sick of having men in her clan want to marry her to "save and protect" her she ventures out on her own to find adventure...Kisimul sounds good She agrees to go to Kisimul to help birth Mairi's child. Her guard Thomas is taken ill. He stays at an inn and Grace goes and finds some supplies to help him. While out in the storms she comes across the wolves. A gorgeous warrior comes to help and well Grace being Grace ends up injuring the warrior, now she has to heal him and get him out of the storm. .
Once he is awake the two stay out of the storm in a cabin. She then tells him where she is going. Realizing she is a healer and that Mairi being pregnant is out of the question he takes her. But not after a night of "fun" in the cabin. Now the trouble/fun begins.
The Devil kicks in and TAKES Grace home. Now she is angry, which is not a great idea if we remember Grace from The Beast of Aros Castle. Her mouth kicks in and well so do her actions. Once there she finds what is ailing his nephew and new mysterious things start to unfold. She learns the Devil is not quite a devil but has to live up to the name. She thinks that is utter nonsense and in Grace form tells anyone and everyone just that.
We meet some old foes and find a new one. Grace battles each one to prove the heroine can actually be the best "Hero" of all...
You will not be disappointed with this book...I do recommend reading The Beast of Aros Castle first just so you can meet Grace and experience for yourself just how far this outspoken, courage seeking, filthy mouthed (but totally lovable) lass she is!! -
My review cross-posted from
Wit and Sin
A kind hero forced to play the beast, a heroine who is braver and stronger than she knows, and a romance that is by turns sweet and sensual makes The Devil of Dunakin Castle a wonderful read. Heather McCollum’s writing charms the heck out of me and I loved getting lost in Grace and Keir’s story.
Grace is a wholly endearing heroine. She’s the wallflower type who finally gets a chance to come into her own and she shines. In the beginning of the story, she’s looking for adventure. She gets more than she bargained for when she’s nearly mauled by wolves, rescued by Keir, then snowbound with an injured Keir, and then kidnapped by the man so that she may use her healing skills to heal his nephew (these are not spoilers as they all happen right at the beginning of the story). Grace faces all these obstacles with determined practicality and strong spirit, which I adored. She has more spine than she knows, which she’ll need if she wants to claim Keir for her own. Keir has been groomed since childhood to be the Devil of Dunakin Castle, the great and brutal defender of the MacKinnon clan. His reputation is larger-than-life, making him feared by all except his family and closest friend who know the truth: that Keir is a good, strong, fair man. My heart broke for Keir, who is forced to be an isolated monster and carry out punishments in the name of his increasingly bloodthirsty brother.
Grace is the first woman not cowed by Keir’s reputation. She sees the man beneath the mask and I absolutely loved that. The two of them have great chemistry from the start. They’re the kind of couple that fits perfectly. But with treachery afoot at Dunakin Castle and Keir’s sworn duty as the Devil in the way, the road to happily ever after isn’t an easy one. I was rooting for them every step of the way and their love story is an excellent mix of sweetness and steam.
The Devil of Dunakin Castle is the fourth book in Ms. McCollum’s Highland Isles series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. I have been reading this series out of order and have had no problems other than I desperately want to find the time to catch up because I love Ms. McCollum’s writing. If you’re a fan of Julie Garwood’s Highland romances, then you’re going to love The Devil of Dunakin Castle. It’s a spirited, delightful read with characters who will easily grab your heart.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. -
The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum
Highland Isles #4
Grace Ellington and Keir McKinnon meet when he saves her from voracious animals in the midst of a snowstorm. She returns the favor by healing his wounds from that battle only to have him kidnap her and take her to the Isle of Skye to heal his ill nephew. Keir is “The Devil of Dunakin Castle” raised to put fear into all for the heartless horrible deeds he visits on all but usually at the bequest of his chieftain – or perhaps he does what he does just because of who and what he is.
As Grace gets to know Keir she sees another side of him, cares for him and wants more from him that he believes is possible. As the two do their best to thwart evil, try to heal the ill will and people around them and find comfort in one another they both wonder if perhaps…just perhaps…there might be a future for them together.
This book made me feel, care and want. I loved the way the backstory of the characters unfolded. I came away wishing the book had not ended and wanting to know what happens to more than one of the characters in the future so am hopeful there will be another book soon in this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Entangled Publishing for the ARC – This is my honest review.
5 Stars -
The Devil of Dunakin Castle is more than a romance, it has many great elements such as humor, action, mystery, a misunderstood hero, a villain, and adventure. I loved Grace as a heroine and she kept the story moving with her humor and wit. Keir’s character was all sorts of wonderful, he was like a misunderstood Robin Hood who also misunderstands himself. The combination of him and Grace was a perfect pairing. There was quite a bit of steam between these two characters and the romance itself was quite entertaining. Overall, I found The Devil of Dunakin Castle to be a wonderful blending of many different elements into a lovely romance.
This review is based on a complimentary book I received from NetGalley. It is an honest and voluntary review. The complimentary receipt of it in no way affected my review or rating. -
The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum is Book 4 of the Highland Isles Series.
What a fantastic historical read! I was looking forward to Grace’s story since she first appeared on the scene and wow, did Ms. McCollum deliver! A must-read!
An ARC was generously provided in exchange for an honest review of which this is both honest and completely voluntary. -
*4.5 Stars*
Such a great story! I loved both characters so much. Grace was feisty and exactly the right person to slip beneath Keir's skin. Keir had a rough past and present, and definitely needed some happiness in his life. I loved how open they were with each other when alone and how they encouraged the best in each other. Highly recommended! -
C’est une lecture animée et délicieuse avec des personnages que l’on apprécie rapidement. Le tome peut parfaitement se parcourir seul. Mais, si vous souhaitez mieux comprendre le personnage de Grace, je vous recommande de lire le premier livre pour découvrir son passé et les raisons qui l’ont amené à vivre sur l’île de Mull.
https://www.sariahlit.com/2020/10/pas... -
There's quite a bit to recommend here -- good writing and high drama and appealing leads, but for whatever reason this historical didn't quite do it for me. I'm seeing the other reviews, though, and I'm clearly in the minority!
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This book made me uncomfortable. The “dirty” talking was so creepy. Honestly I had to start skipping that because it made me nauseous.
The characters were ridiculous in this book. I can’t remember but I think I enjoyed the last couple books so I was surprised by how much I disliked this book. -
This was a really quick read, but one that I enjoyed a lot. When I found out that it was actually the fourth book in a series, I was a little worried that I wouldn't quite get everything going on because I hadn't read the first three. Fortunately, that wasn't the case. While I'm sure that it would have put some of the characters into better context, it did not affect the story for me at all. It was still fun, funny, and very entertaining. Both the characters and the world building were believable and well developed making it easy to get into the story.
I liked Keir. Because he was born the second son, his whole childhood and life he has been raised and trained to be nothing more than the vicious Devil of Dunakin Castle. His name alone instills fear in people. But that is not who he really is. While Keir is definitely a brutal warrior and fierce defender, he also has a solid heart that cares for others. It's not easy, but with the help of his only friend Keir manages to keep this facade up (and increase his evil reputation) while also helping those who he encounters. His current order is to retrieve a healer for his dying nephew.
Grace was great. I liked her personality and how she acted. Raised as an English noblewoman, she left England to make a new life in Scotland. A decision she will never regret because she never enjoyed her life in England but is loving it now. She's been learning how to be a healer, and while maybe not the best, she's actually pretty good at it. Now she's on her way to help a friend deliver her baby.
These two meet in the middle of a blizzard when Grace stumbles upon a wolf den and Keir comes to her rescue. Keir and his horse are injured during the fight so Grace feels responsible to see to their healing. Taking cover from the storm in a nearby abandoned cabin, Grace does whatever she can to help the unconscious Keir get better. It's days before he wakes up. When he finally does, he can actually be himself for a time because Grace has no idea who he is. Their interactions were great, and it was sweet to see them get closer. Keir knows that Grace is on her way to help another, but he never intends to let her go. Grace was even giving thought to going with him to help when she figures this out and naturally feels betrayed.
On the way to the castle, Grace finally sees the Devil that Keir had told her he was and she hates it. But she also sees thru it. She fights herself a lot over her growing feelings for Keir and how she should hate him for kidnapping her. Keir fights his feelings for Grace as well because he doesn't want to have a son who will inherit this title, but he also doesn't believe he deserves the happiness. When they get to the castle, Grace is quickly able to figure out what is wrong with Keir's nephew. And now it's the Devil's job to flush out the traitor.
I liked the ending and how everything went down. How Grace freed Keir of his burden was a little corny but it worked. And now they both have found the one they want to be with and Keir doesn't have to be a Devil anymore.
I enjoyed this book enough that I would love to check out the first ones in this series some day, and no doubt any that might come after.
ARC provided by publisher via Netgalley. -
Publisher's Description:
Englishwoman, Grace Ellington, has made a home in Scotland, but to escape from the meddling people around her who seem to think she needs to wed right away—because women need saving, right? —she volunteers to journey north to aid a friend in childbirth.
Keir MacKinnon, the younger brother of the MacKinnon clan chief, has been raised to strike fear in people, on and off the battlefield. Trained to uphold MacKinnon law, he has hardened into a lethal warrior. Caught in a Highland blizzard with the feisty Grace, Keir realizes the beautiful woman who saved him can also save his nephew’s life.
Sparks fly when he takes her against her will to his home, and Grace’s courage is put to the ultimate test. Is Keir MacKinnon the passionate, kind man she saved in the Highland blizzard, or is he truly the cruel executioner who seeks to solve all issues by the sword?
My Thoughts:
This is book #4 of this series and I have read three of the four. I seem to have missed book #2.
I enjoyed reading this one more than I did books #1 and #3.
It kept my attention more. I simply couldn't put this one down and I finished it in one sitting.
Grace is my type of heroine. She is understanding if a bit clumsy and bungling at times. She has a fear of water that she has never overcome since her brother held her under water when she was a child.
When she sets out to help her friend Mairi with the birth of her first child she is forced to stop at an inn. Her traveling companion has become ill and Grace intends to go to the local apothecary for something to help him. Only the snow is worse than she thought and she becomes lost.
Keir MacKinnon is looking for the renowned Mairi, the healer he needs for his nephew. He happens upon Grace who is cornered by wolves. In the process of his heroics, he is bitten and knocked over the head by a tree branch unwittingly dislodged by Grace who he has placed up a tree.
How will this convoluted tale procede? Will this unusual beginning lead to something Keir and Grace never thought to have for themselves?
I gave this wonderfully written if sometime violent tale 4.5 of 5.0 stars for storyline and character development and a sensual rating of 4 of 5 flames. The intimacy between our hero and heroine is very heated indeed.
Although there are repeat characters from the other books in this series, this book can be read easily as a standalone title.
I received a complimentary digital ARC copy of this book via NetGalley from the publisher to read. This in no way affected my opinion of this book which I read and reviewed voluntarily. -
“This book is dedicated to all the women who feel like they are secondary characters in the novel of life. Grace Ellington was a secondary character, yet see what she has become! Behind our masks of self-doubt, we are all heroines.”
With that opening dedication, and her acknowledgment too, Heather McCollum had me all set for a wonderful adventure ..and succeeded in delivering one!
I got a kick out of Grace and her courageous attitude that she believed to be cowardice. And gracious did she have a mouth! I wasn’t expecting the sassy comments from someone so quiet and..not boring exactly, but the word I’m looking for is currently escaping my mind... At any rate, she was a lively heroine with an edgy, yet sweet tartness I found highly entertaining.
Keir was full of contradictions regarding his terrible title as Devil. He’s the big baddie in public, but goes out of his way to help others, in private mind you, with the help of his bestie Brodie. Say what? Even I was scratching my head with Grace on this turn of events. It’s been awhile since I had read this device plot, but it worked rather well. And I was delighted by Grace’s ability to shoot down Keir’s illogical logic behind the job in a very rational manner. Even more surprising was Keir actually listening to her-most the time.
I felt the storyline itself was written decently well, but the romance kind of threw me off. The romance was good, yet slightly unbelievable for me. Grace turned into a real hussy in the bedroom which didn’t jive with the titled, virginal role she was written as. Obviously Keir wasn’t complaining, since he was reaping those benefits, but Grace was way more vocal-and knowledgeable-than I thought she’d be!
I actually don’t consider this book an historical romance in the traditional sense I’m used to, but that’s not a bad thing. I’d say this is a rather..spruced up version of one. The language and actions by Grace in the first few pages alone made that obvious yet I enjoyed the changes. Grace was highly amusing, didn’t cower, and used her brains instead of her body. Keir was also different from the usual hero with his ability to empathize, listen, and help Grace, instead of jumping in with swords swinging. This was a good read and now I’m curious about the other characters mentioned! I do hope Brodie gets a small novella at point. He’s earned one! -
French & English reviews
Une romance sympa dans les Highlands que j'ai lu avec plaisir =)
Grace était un personnage que je n'avais pas beaucoup aimé dans le premier livre mais elle était beaucoup plus intéressante dans ce tome-là !! Et j'ai beaucoup aimé sa romance avec Keir ainsi que tout le drama avec le frère fou, la sœur orgueilleuse etc.
Un seul défaut : l'invraisemblance historique de la romance ><
Grace se comporte vraiment comme une femme moderne et libérée et PAS DU TOUT comme une femme du XVIème siècle ... Dans AUCUNE romance historique, une femme vierge et célibataire ne prend l'initiative de s'envoyer en l'air avec un inconnu dans une cabine au milieu de nulle part sans avoir d'assurance sur son avenir ...
Bref, une romance légère qui se lit facilement =)
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A nice romance in the Highlands that I read with pleasure =)
Grace was a character that I didn't like much in the first book but she was much more interesting in this book !! And I really liked her romance with Keir as well as the whole drama with the crazy brother, the proud sister etc.
One flaw : the historical improbability of the romance ><
Grace truly behaves like a modern and liberated woman and NOT AT ALL like a 16th century woman ... NEVER in an historical romance, a virgin and single woman takes the initiative to have sex with a stranger in a cabin in the middle of nowhere with no assurance for her future ...
In short, a light romance that is easy to read =)
