I loved this book! Like someone else said, it is not your typical romance in that it is brutal at some points. But lets face it, it was a brutal time period, and the author really focuses on the historically correct aspect to bring that time period to life. Which is great with me as I am a historical nut, and thought that this book had a great balance between the historical parts and the love story. To me it was the type of book that really made you feel for the characters, becuase you went on a journey with them as they had to overcome many obstacles. Ms. Givens has become one of my favorite authors, as she really does her research. I would reccomend all of her other books as well.
Sherri H. (mamadoodle) -
Helpful Score: 4
Very good! Not your typical Highland romance but I think that actually made it better!
Helpful Score: 4
Wow!
This is a beautifully written historical adventure in medieval Scotland. It takes place during a time when there are still Viking raiders from the north. It is amazing in detail and in the character development.
This is a definite read for any history buff, any romance reader, and anyone who loves action in a story.
This is a great weekend read - and I mean most of the weekend! Once you pick it up, you will not be able to put down the characters or the beautiful descriptions of Western Scotland. I actually needed tissues during some sections! However, it all ends...well, you will need to find out on your own!
This is a beautifully written historical adventure in medieval Scotland. It takes place during a time when there are still Viking raiders from the north. It is amazing in detail and in the character development.
This is a definite read for any history buff, any romance reader, and anyone who loves action in a story.
This is a great weekend read - and I mean most of the weekend! Once you pick it up, you will not be able to put down the characters or the beautiful descriptions of Western Scotland. I actually needed tissues during some sections! However, it all ends...well, you will need to find out on your own!
Helpful Score: 3
An utterly fantastic story of epic proportions -- I had trouble putting it down. This is not a light and fluffy read, it is one of those books where the characters stay with you.
Helpful Score: 2
One of the best historical that I have read. If you want lots of sex and wimpy characters don't bother with this book. A delightful read!!!!
Helpful Score: 1
This book is fabulous! Certainly one not to be put down! I can't believe I left it on my shelf for a year before starting it!! You won't be disappointed!
Helpful Score: 1
This is another excellent book by Kathleen Givens. The story takes place in 1254, in Scotland. Margaret MacDonald has been betrothed to Lachlan Ross since she was a child, and her wedding is in less than a month. Norsemen from islands north of Scotland are attacking the coastal villages, and Margaret's village is attacked while she is away. Without giving away the story, the book is about these attacks and a love story involving Margaret. Givens' books are always full of historical references to how the people lived at certain time periods. It is well-written and I could hardly put it down!
Helpful Score: 1
Loved this book. A great romance without all the fluff and sex. A true romance of two people who fall in love and not just in lust. Great attention to detail, history, and well developed characters. This was a quick read, but only because it is so wonderful it's hard to put down.
Helpful Score: 1
A wonderful historical romance! Now I need the sequel!
Few authors can take the romance of the Highlands, the brutality of the Norsemen and the graphic reality of living amid the hardships that were the 1300 century with such finesse as Ms. Givens has done in this enthralling story. She creates a heart stopping love story while educating the reader about the savage realities of life so deftly that one is not even aware they are learning, they are so riveted to the tale. Being enlightened while being entertained is a lofty achievement for an author and a rare but delightful gift for a reader.
Excellent read.
Book Description
From acclaimed historical novelist Kathleen Givens comes a magnificently conceived, intricately detailed novel that brings to vivid life the tumult, adventure, and passion of thirteenth-century Scotland, when Norse invaders laid claim to the land and its people -- and an explosive clash of cultures, politics, and personal pride changed the world forever.
1263: On Scotland's western shore, the village of Somerstrath prepares for the joyous wedding celebration of Margaret MacDonald, the laird's daughter. But a dark storm of bloodshed and betrayal is closing in, as a merciless band of Vikings threatens the Highlands. Margaret is determined to hold the MacDonald clan together and to locate her abducted younger brother. But can she trust the noblemen from King Alexander's court, who insist that only by adhering to a betrothal conceived for political gain will she find safety? Or should she put her trust in an imposing half-Irish, half-Norse warrior? Gannon MacMagnus alone offers her hope of reuniting her family and vanquishing the barbarous Norsemen who would continue to rob her people of their God-given right to determine their own destinies. In whom should Margaret entrust the fate of the rugged, magnificent land she calls home?
From acclaimed historical novelist Kathleen Givens comes a magnificently conceived, intricately detailed novel that brings to vivid life the tumult, adventure, and passion of thirteenth-century Scotland, when Norse invaders laid claim to the land and its people -- and an explosive clash of cultures, politics, and personal pride changed the world forever.
1263: On Scotland's western shore, the village of Somerstrath prepares for the joyous wedding celebration of Margaret MacDonald, the laird's daughter. But a dark storm of bloodshed and betrayal is closing in, as a merciless band of Vikings threatens the Highlands. Margaret is determined to hold the MacDonald clan together and to locate her abducted younger brother. But can she trust the noblemen from King Alexander's court, who insist that only by adhering to a betrothal conceived for political gain will she find safety? Or should she put her trust in an imposing half-Irish, half-Norse warrior? Gannon MacMagnus alone offers her hope of reuniting her family and vanquishing the barbarous Norsemen who would continue to rob her people of their God-given right to determine their own destinies. In whom should Margaret entrust the fate of the rugged, magnificent land she calls home?
I absolutely loved this book though at times the Viking brutality was repulsive and disturbing. Early on, I had thoughts of Outlander with the Scottish setting, political unrest, etc but the resemblance quickly faded. There is just no comparison to Outlander. The setting is medieval, a time when the Vikings raided Scotland and killed all in sight regardless of gender or age. The aftermath of these scenes is horrific. I enjoyed the romance, really liked Gannon and Margaret is one of those characters you instantly feel kinship with.
I am not usually a romance novel fan but this story moved along wellwith enough history and scottish background to make it interesting. The end was predictable but it was a pleasant read
Sandra M. (Lighthouses4Sandy) reviewed On a Highland Shore (Highland, Bk 1) on + 145 more book reviews
Wow, a very powerful book. Givens doesn't hold back, gives you exactly what it was like during these times. You might want to read Kilgannon and Rose of Kilgannon first.
Good read
I love this book. It was a wonderful story that made me happy, sad and kept me hooked from page one. If you pick this book up to read you will have a hard time putting it down. I love historical Scottish romances and this story was one of the best I have ever read. Kathleen Givens wove a wonderful story.
