Member Reviews
Very entertaining story line. The twist and turns woven into the adventures provides for an enjoyable read.
How could you resist that title?! We all know I’m a sucker for a Regency romance, especially if it involves Scotsmen, so this was a must-read for me!
This was such a fun read! It’s the story of three Scottish brothers who are forced, by the terms of their inheritance, to come to London to pick English brides from among the ton. The brothers, naturally, hate this plan, and hate the mother who is enforcing it (she left them as children as she couldn’t stand Scotland any longer). We focus on Niall, the middle brother, who unexpectedly falls in love with Amelia-Rose – who is, unfortunately, the bride chosen for the eldest brother, Coll…
This has one of my favourite things to find in a romance – messy families! It’s more lighthearted than, say, A Lyons in Winter (which I reviewed recently), but the tangle of emotions both in Niall’s family and Amelia-Rose’s adds a lot of interest and tension to the story. I really liked the way that the three brothers differed from each other, and their different reactions to the task of finding an English wife. I’m definitely keen to read the other brothers’ stories! I also really liked the fish-out-of-water aspect created by bringing these Highlanders to London – I like stories in wild Scottish castles, and I like ones in refined English drawing rooms, but I found the combination really fun and original, and an excellent way to again, show off the different personalities of the brothers.
I liked Niall and Amelia-Rose together, very much! He’s kind and funny, but somewhat in the shadow of his older brother, and she’s trying very much to suppress her sense of humour and self-worth to be the perfect woman her mother wants her to be. They both bring out a cheeky streak in the other that is really lovely to read – yes, it makes for fun banter, but also, it shows that they can loosen up and be themselves with each other. I was really rooting for them! I look forward to seeing them cameo in future books, just ribbing each other and making each other laugh. It’s the kind of relationship I love to read about.
I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this to anyone who enjoys a lighter-hearted romance – if you’re a fan of Austenland, Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons series, or Georgette Heyer, you will probably love this! It definitely gets 5 out of 5 stars from me!
3,5 STARS
This book was well-written, though it took me a long time to get into it.I started and stopped multiple times and when that happens I find that I just am not going to love the book because it did not grab me from the beginning.I have so many mixed feelings about this book. The heroine wasn't nice I couldn't connect with her and I didn't like her a lot!The hero though , he was so good!
This was a wonderful introduction to a new series. The writing was excellent and the main characters were very likable. While I love the title of the book, I think a more appropriate title would have been ‘The Mothers From Hell’. I’m sure I was supposed to start out disliking Francesca and then soften toward her as the book moves on. That didn’t happen, because, bottom line, she abandoned three little boys and never contacted them again until she wanted to demand that they meet her demands or lose the support for their estate. In seventeen years, she didn’t write to them, she didn’t go visit them, nothing – nada, zip. Then, she demands – yes demands – that they do her bidding. Yes, she did help our hero out, but – well – as far as I was concerned, it was too little too late and not enough to make up for what she’d done.
Amelia-Rose Hyacinth Baxter was raised to know that she had one purpose and one purpose only. She was to marry a title. It didn’t matter which title, but her mother wanted a title and would accept absolutely nothing else. Amelia-Rose tried to be the dutiful, meek, mild, docile, opinionless young woman her mother wanted her to be, but it was hard – so very hard because she was none of those things. She found out in her first season that if she wanted any marriage proposals, she really was going to have to ratchet down her true self because nobody wanted that. This season, she’s received proposals, but none of them had a title, so her mother has declined all of them (yes, evidently the father agrees). Now, her parents have signed a betrothal agreement between her and a wild, uncouth, uncivilized Highlander who is the heir to an earldom. She’ll try to be what she’s supposed to be, but she’s really unsure about this whole thing.
The MacTaggert brothers, Coll, Aden, and Niall, have lived the last seventeen years without their mother - Niall was only seven when she left. She got tired of the Highlands lack of social life and left with their newborn sister, Emily. They haven’t heard a word from her in all that time and now, she’s demanding that they travel to London and marry English brides. Yes, she can enforce that because she holds the purse strings that provide support to their estate, Aldriss Park. They have to think of the estate and their crofters and villagers. Plus, she also holds a paper signed by their father stating that in return for her support of Aldriss, each son must marry an English bride AND that their mother gets to choose the bride for one of them. To say that the three brothers aren’t happy would be a gross understatement.
Upon arrival in London, they learn that their mother has already arranged a betrothal for Coll who is heir to his father’s earldom. Coll is the most belligerent and argumentative of the lot and he has absolutely no intention of marrying anyone his mother has chosen. He’ll just annoy and outrage the prospective bride until she calls it off.
Coll is as good as his word and does whatever he can to enrage Amelia-Rose. Niall, the peacemaker of the brothers, steps in and smooths things over as much as he can to save the betrothal. Except, as he interacts with Amelia-Rose, he comes to like her better and better and comes to care for her. So, what will he do about that? Maybe nothing because his mother has said it has to be Coll who marries her.
I really, really, really disliked Amelia-Rose’s mother. She cared absolutely nothing about her daughter and basically told her as much. She was bound and determined that Amelia-rose would marry a title – and she even locked her in her room to assure that happened.
I loved seeing Niall and Amber-Rose learn to love each other. They are both loving, caring and funny. Niall gives her a nickname and tells her that it means Rose in Gaelic. Well, it doesn’t. I also loved the boy’s arrival at their mother’s home. It was priceless and you’ll love reading it.
What I didn’t love was how quickly the boys came to sort of have a peace treaty with Francesca. They had a legitimate, well-earned grievance with her and she never asks for forgiveness. Just expects that they should understand and capitulate. I’m guessing that we’ll learn more about her in future books, but still, the bottom line will always be – SHE left, SHE didn’t write, SHE didn’t visit – not once in seventeen years. For me, no forgiveness there. I am betting that there will be a book for the father and mother to reunite. I hope they get a HEA, but – it will still be too little, too late in my mind.
Great read! I absolutely love Niall and Amelia-Rose. I wonder who will be featured in the next book. Can’t wait to find out.
Reviewed by Barbara
Five stars for the title and cover, three stars for the story!
This was a book I turned to in the midst of a book rut. I needed something light and romantic, and I had never read a Suzanne Enoch book before!
The plot isn’t as campy as the title/cover would have you think. This is the story of three Scottish brothers who are forced to come to London to find wives due to an agreement between their estranged parents (Mom lives in London while Dad lives in Scotland). Naturally, the brothers are reluctant suitors as they have no interest in London society, having lived a more rustic life in the Highlands their entire life.
Enter stage left Amelia-Rose, a proper English girl whose parents are desperate to marry her off to a man with a title. She has an instant connection with one of the brothers but her parents have other, more refined gentlemen in mind...
If you love historic romances, forbidden love tropes, or books that are set in Scotland/England with sexy men with even sexier brogue accents (think the OUTLANDER series but not quite so much action) you will enjoy this one!
This was delightfully entertaining! The conflict was real and compelling, and the relationship between Amelia and Niall was completely believable — and fun. A perfect summer read! I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
3,5 STARS
This book was well-written, though it took me a long time to get into it.I started and stopped multiple times and when that happens I find that I just am not going to love the book because it did not grab me from the beginning.I have so many mixed feelings about this book. The heroine wasn't nice I couldn't connect with her and I didn't like her a lot!The hero though , he was so good!
Suzanne Enoch does it again! I thoroughly enjoyed this romance. The characters were genuine and the storyline kept me interested. Actually had laugh out loud moments...can’t wait until the next book in the series.
This is a very typical romance concerning highlanders and very prim and proper English ladies. London socialite Amelia-Rose Baxter has pretty modern ideas about marriage. She knows her parents want her to find a man but will not compromise herself when she does marry. She wants a husband who will appreciate her fine mind as well as her body, who enjoys life in London as much as she does, and who can be her equal. Highlander Niall MacTaggert Knows he must marry to keep the ancestral state. His older brother does not find the lady, who just happens to be Amelia-Rose, his mother has selected to his liking. Step in Niall. He finds Amelia-Rose very much to his liking and sets out to shape her just to be just the woman his brother (or any of his brothers and he) wants. Can he possibly succeed, without making the mistake his father made, marrying a woman who is not taken in by rugged highlanders?
If you enjoy books about highlanders and their women, with all the intrigue involved, this is a good one for you. It also is typical of Susan Enoch’s books. While a good book (and, frankly, I like Susan Enoch’s books), the book was a bit of a slow read for me, and the whole idea behind it was a bit hackneyed, in my opinion. Nevertheless, the characterization was spot on, and the descriptions were, as usual, well done. The story was just a bit like many of the others I have read. If you like her books and their tales about highlanders, this is a good book to add to your collection. Besides, I suspect the series will, hopefully, only get better. It just did not grab me as some of the others did. Still, I like the author’s work, and, all in all, this was an enjoyable read for me—just not the best. I received this form NetGalley to read and review.
IT'S GETTING SCOT IN HERE
(Wild Wicked Highlanders: #1)
Written by Suzanne Enoch
2019; St. Martin's Paperbacks (342 pages)
Genre: historical romance, fiction, highlanders, humour
RATING: 4 STARS
This is my first novel by Suzanne Enoch, and I throughly enjoyed the story, characters and writing. As this is the first book in the series, it sets up the arc of the series and introduces the readers to the main players. With all that going on, the love story of Niall and Amelia-Rose was the perfect one to start with. The chemistry between the two was in the banter and compassion they had for one another. Amelia-Rose's own battle of wanting to be herself and trying to appease her parents to keep the peace was quite relatable even if arranged marriages are not so much the custom. Her witty insights make her a sassy heroine, and is what Niall needs. I read this book in two sittings, as once I started I really didn't want to stop reading till the story finished. I cannot wait for the next book in the series, and see the heroines that make Coll and Aden sweat! It will also be interesting to see Angus and Francesca meet again. I look forward to more novels by Enoch.
***I received an eARC from the PUBLISHER via NETGALLEY***
I loved this story, I cant wait to read more about the brothers MacTaggerts. I highly recommend this book. Thanks, to Netgalley for this free copy.
I found this story OK. A few spots were amusing but it lacked the humour that some of SE's previous books had. I had trouble warming up to Amelia-Rose, Neils was likable. Low down, I found it easy to walk away from this book, as I wasn't fully engaged in their story. l found that the first half was a little on the boring side. It did pick up a bit towards the end. Overall, an OK story. *I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and this is my voluntary and honest review.
This book was funny and lovely -the writer knows how to set the mood and how to make you feel like you are part of the story, and I really enjoyed the book because of that.
3 brothers from the highlands travel to England at the "request" of their mother, to find English brides. This is the first book in a series and one I definitely want to continue reading. I connected with the characters so I want to see what happens next to them.
I do think that the heroine was a little too knowledgeable for a young unbedded female. But the romance was sweet and swoon worthy and the heroine was a strong female who found her own which is always a pleasure to read.
I look forward to reading the story of the other two brothers.
Cute and engrossing historical romance. The author writes with depth and layers, which can be uncommon in historical romance. I'll definitely be reading more by Suzanne Enoch.
An engaging romp of a book through Scotland. I really liked Francesca and Angus as characters. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for my ARC. All opinions are my own.
This was a fun read. All the characters felt genuine. My only problem was the parents and how high handed they were in handling the children. Without them the book would have been a 5 star for me. Looking forward to more of the brothers stories. Thank you to netgalley for this ARC for my honest review.
Crystal's Thoughts:
It's Getting Scot in Here is a delightful tale of two unlikely hearts colliding in the midst of their parents machinations, enveloping readers in a wonderfully fun historical romance that they are sure to savor.
Amelia-Rose Baxter's parents have arranged her marriage, and with the perpetual need to please her mother, Amelia-Rose agrees. When she meets the boorish Highlander though, Amelia-Rose knows that she can never be the meek Englishwoman that Coll MacTaggert expects to wed and then abandon in London, even if it means finally fulfilling her mother's dreams of a title. However, the MacTaggert brothers traveled all of the way from the Highlands to fulfill the marriage agreement that their father made with their estranged mother, so that their clan may continue to prosper with Lady Aldiss' financial support. Youngest brother and peace-maker, Niall MacTaggert, decides to take it upon himself to smooth the way between Amelia-Rose and Coll. But in doing so, he finds himself in a situation that he never imagined possible, falling for his brothers intended. With each meeting, he desperately tries to build up her opinion of his eldest brother, while telling himself that it could never be, but their passion is undeniable. Will Amelia-Rose and Niall bow to their families intentions, or will they find a love worth giving up everything for?
I was instantly swept away by this story revolving around arranged marriages, forbidden romance, and scheming parents. At the beginning, you can't help but to admire the way Amelia-Rose clashes wits with Coll MacTaggert (who was a complete arse). Here is a young lady that loves the life of a London Socialite, but often finds herself chafing against societies expectations, and those of her over-bearing mother. Quick-witted and sharp-tongue, I couldn't help but applaud her spirit. It was easy to see why Niall was so taken with her from the get-go. Niall MacTaggert is everything that a hero should be in romance. Forthright and confident, he makes no apologies for who he is, yet easily bends to Amelia-Rose's knowledge on social etiquette. These two come from completely different backgrounds, with many preconceived notions about the other, but soon find themselves depending on one another to navigate their families maneuvering. It's an enemies, to friends, to a slowly growing taboo bond, before finally becoming lovers relationship.
It's Getting Scot in Here is very much a character-driven story, which is my favorite kind, and I loved how fleshed-out it was in all aspects. Building relationships between characters one encounter at a time. The growing romance between Niall and Amelia-Rose never once felt rushed. In doing so, the author created a delicious tension between them that was palpable in each scene together. The secondary characters created an intricate backdrop for our main characters, supporting the story and creating a bigger picture for them to move through. Some I really liked, like Niall's little sister and Amelia-Rose's cousin, while others I really wanted to smack. *cough* Coll *cough* Amelia-Rose's mother *cough* One underlying aspect of the series though is the estranged relationship between the siblings father and mother, the resentment that they hold over it, and the marriage bargain that their mother is holding them to. Some of this was touched on in this story via Niall and Amelia-Rose's own fears, but I imagine that these threads will unravel slowly throughout the series - and I look forward to it. I really hope that we can see a reconciliation between their parents by the end.
All in all, this tale kept me turning the pages. It was well-paced with only minor lagging around the middle mark, with authentic characters, and an intriguing plot-line. The world-building was rich, and if you enjoy historical romances that don't attempt to be too modern or edgy in order to entice new readers to the genre, and stick to their time period beautifully, then I definitely recommend It's Getting Scot in Here!
Suzanne Enoch offers readers an enchanting twist on the marriage mart in this, her first title in The Wild Wicked Highlanders series. It's Getting Scot In Here introduces readers to the MacTaggart men.
Who, though they may be the sons of a proper English lady. Have no intention of taming their Highland wilds in order to find the English brides that their legacies require.
Amelia-Rose should be the quiet and demure "seen and not heard" English Rose that society requires.
She should be...
But she is not.
Blessed with a quick wit and an even quicker tongue. Lady Amelia is not one to just sit idly by, and let barbed slights fly.
But one look into the celadon eyes of Niall MacTaggart and all she can do is smile.
Which would be a good thing.
If she wasn't promised to his brother.
This "right love wrong brother" love story is one in which readers really get to know both Amelia and Niall. Just as they get to know each other.
Although it is easy to feel bad for Niall's brother for missing out on the awesomeness that is Amelia. The time does come when one can't help rooting for Niall.
Playing a close second plot-wise to Niall and Amelia.
The backstory of Niall's mother and her desertion of the boys.
The more that one comes to know about her, however. The more one comes to understand her reasons for leaving.
It's Getting Scot In Here is a very sweet, mid-paced romance. Brimming with characters that a reader can't help loving.
And a "happily..." tailormade for the wild at heart.
This is the first book in The Wild Wicked Highlanders Series.
The beginning of the book explains what occurred between the Highlanders brothers parents. How Angus MacTaggert the Earl of Aldriss and their mother Francesca Oswell fell madly in love and got married. How he found out her father’s solicitors had arranged to keep the Oswell family money in Francesca’s name. Francesca gave Angus 3 sons – Col, Aden and Niall. When she gave birth to their 4th child – a daughter – she decided this life was not civilized and left for London. She made arrangements with Angus that she will continue to provide for the maintenance of the estate on condition that their 3 sons will marry to a proper Englishwoman before their sister. 17 years goes by, and Angus receives a letter from Francesca telling him that their daughter is engaged and their sons need to come to London and wed an Englishwoman to fulfill their arrangement. And thus begins the story.
WOW! All I can say is WOW! I love this story! This book has romance, humor, family, kilts, cravats, Rory the stag, and satisfied endings. The characters are all well developed. Niall is so funny! The author has a great sense of humor! I laughed several times throughout the book.
When I read the opening sentence, it made me laugh and I was hooked. I did not want to do anything else but read this book.
The heroine Amelia-Rose is beautiful, smart, witty, sweet, caring and likes to think for herself. She wants so bad to please her mother, but she also knows her mother doesn’t care about what she wants or thinks, her mother just wants a title.
Niall is handsome, charming, courteous, protective and a barbarian who doesn’t care what others think of him. He wants to fulfill his mother’s agreement with his father so their Aldriss home and people will be taken care of. They have a lot of people depending on them in the village.
I loved the characters Niall, Amelia-Rose, Francesca, Eloise, Aden and Coll. I did not want the book to end!
I do not have a favorite part of the book because I enjoyed them all. And what I hated about the book was that it ended. And I have to wait for the next in the series to read more.
I hope the next book will continue with Niall and Amelia-Rose and let us know what women Aden and Coll end up with.
I am so happy I found a new author. My To Be Read list just got bigger!
I highly recommend this book to all romance readers! You will not be disappointed!
I give the book 5 stars. I wish I could give it 10.
Book Cover gets 4 stars.
A Big Thank You goes out to Netgalley and St. Martin’s Paperbacks for providing me with an advanced digital read. The opinions expressed on this review are my own.
A side note to the author: I love the dedication. It made me smile. I never had a mother. It sounds like you had a good one.
Quotes:
“I’d nae put too much stock in Da turning up his toes, piuthar, I’ve killed him twice all on my own, and between Coll and Aden he’s taken his last breath at least a dozen times.” – Niall
“I see I won’t need to inform the neighbors that my sons have arrived.” – Francesca
“Do you suppose my intended has bothered to bathe?” – Amelia-Rose