Reviewer: Holly
His Bonnie Bride by Hannah Howell
Series: Highland Brides #1
Also in this series: Highland Wedding, The Highlander's Promise (Highland Brides #6)

Publication Date: June 5th 2012
Point-of-View: Alternating Third
Genres: Historical Romance
Pages: 352
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New York Times bestselling author Hannah Howell traverses the embattled border between England and Scotland, where two warring families prolong centuries of discord. . .
Storm Eldon was first caught up in the war between England and Scotland as a young girl, when she and her family were held hostage by their sworn enemies, the MacLagans. Years later, Storm finds herself trapped in the clutches of her Scottish adversaries once again. Now she must fight to preserve her loyalties, guard her virtue, and resist the charms of Tavis MacLagan, her handsome Highland captor. . .
Praise for Hannah Howell and her Highland novels
"Few authors portray the Scottish highlands as lovingly or colorfully." --Publishers Weekly
"Another classic." --Romantic Times

This is one of my favorite Hannah Howell books. I originally discovered this about 5 years ago, and now my copy is so tattered it’s falling apart at the bindings.

Storm Eldon is the favored oldest daughter of an English Marsh Lord. We first meet her when she, her brothers and her cousins are kidnapped by their life long enemies the MacLagans, a clan of Highlanders. Her father is in the middle of a battle with the clan and her step-mother thinks it would be fun to take the kids and have a picnic whilst watching the battle. No, she isn’t the sharpest tool in the shed.

That’s the first time Storm meets Tavis. After cleaning up a cut on Tavis’ father’s arm, they’re eventually ransomed back to Storm’s father. Seven years later, Storm is once again kidnapped by Tavis and his brothers. They take her back to their keep, planning to ransom her again, but this time her father is out of the country and her step-mother refuses to meet their demands.

It’s generally known that during this time period, a hostage was free game to whomever wanted to take her. Tavis declares Storm off limits to anyone but himself. He agrees to try and woo her, but eventually makes his intentions clear. She will share his bed.

Outside intrigues, in the form of Tavis’ mistress and Storm’s family – threaten to take Storm from him. Though he refuses to admit he cares for her, it soon becomes obvious he would do anything for her.

This is a passionate love story that really moved me. One of the things Hannah Howell excels at is writing strong heroines. Especially considering the times. They don’t cower before their men, they don’t hold back and they have deep wells of inner strength. In my opinion, Storm Eldon is the epitome of everything a heroine should be.

Though she knows her evil step-mother won’t ransom her, she holds out hope that when her father returns from war he’ll keep her safe. In the meantime, she knows she can’t keep Tavis from her bed. Instead of fighting the inevitable, she succumbs, knowing she’ll have pleasure. She doesn’t expect to come to care for Tavis. Even more, once she admits she has feelings for him, she knows nothing will ever come of it, because their families are bitter enemies.

This is an epic love story, filled with fiery passion, tender moments and amazing characterizations. The secondary characters are well fleshed out, but don’t detract from the main story. I was truly chilled by Storm’s step-mother, and laughed myself silly over the antics of her brothers and cousins. Tavis’ family is a riot and one I could see myself being part of. The way he interacts with his brothers and father is grand, and even Storm finds herself falling in love with them. Tavis himself isn’t as wonderful as Storm, but I loved her so much I didn’t care.

A must read for any lover of historical romances set in the Highlands.

4 out of 5

The series:
His Bonnie Bride
Highland Wedding