Hannah Howell was one of the first authors I discovered who wrote Highland novels. For years I read and re-read every release she put out. Last year, I finally burned out on her. I still continue to buy her books, but now they end up in my growing TBR pile.
The main reason I love Howell is her heroines. No one writes stronger heroines than Hannah Howell, especially considering the times in which her novels are set. I also adore her writing. A lot of people don’t like that she incorporates a deep brogue into her novels, but I adore it. It always takes me a page or two to get the hang of her writing, but then I always fall right in.
But now I find myself facing a dilemma. I was in at the store yesterday and saw Highland Captive on the shelf. This is a reprint of Elfking’s Lady, one of my favorite Howell novels. With a much prettier cover than the one I have. And in much better shape than the one I own. Not to mention that it has a better title than the one I have (Elfking is a horse, in case you were wondering).
So, do I buy it? Yes, I already own it (sort of) and no, I don’t really need another copy (except I kind of do). But..well, I really want it.
The windswept of Scottish Highlands hold great beauty, but also great danger. So when Aimil Mengue is abducted by a feuding clan, she is right to fear for her life – and her virtue. For Aimil’s keeper is the infamous warrior Parlan MacGuin. Aimil sets out to hate him, but Parlan is more honourable – and infinitely more alluring – than expected. Though betrothed to another, Aimil cannot deny her startling desire for the man who holds her captive…Parlan MacGuin knows well his reputation as a fierce warrior, he uses it to claim land and lovers. But beautiful Aimil is a different type of conquest. Now Parlan feels an unfamiliar longing for the woman he keeps at ransom as their forbidden passion threatens to spark an unstoppable blood feud – or forever fill their hearts…
If you haven’t read this novel before, or if you’re looking for a fabulous author and haven’t tried her before, I highly recommend you pick this up. The story is wonderfully done and the characters are brilliant. For all of you who complain about wanting to see strong, independent heroines with brains, this is an excellent place to start.
This novel is not connected in any way to her rather large Murray series, despite having Highland in the title. Which also makes it an excellent place to start if you’re looking to try her for the first time.
This book is available from Zebra. You can buy it here or here in e-format.
I love this author.
I didn’t get to read this book the first time around, so I’m thrilled its re-released! I have it on my wishlist. I adore this books of Ms Howell!