~Book Review~ “The Sins of the Sire” by Emily Royal

My Review:

English noblewoman Elyssia De Monford and Highland laird Tavish MacLean’s lives became twisted and entwined ib the most impossible of ways.  When Elyssia risks the wrath of the sadistic man she is betrothed to in order to save Tavish’s life, he helps her escape. The few precious days they spend together has them both dreaming and wishing something that just isn’t possible when their two countries are at war with each other.

Two years later, Tavish is on the road to vengeance.  He’s bound by a deathbed pledge to his father to exact revenge on the daughter of the English lord who raped and brutalized his sister.  Set upon his course, it’s only after the woman has been captured that he realizes it is the same woman who once saved his life.

Bound by his loyalty to his family, clan and country, Tavish finds himself locked in a personal battle between doing what is required of him and doing what he feels is right by the woman he shouldn’t have feelings for.  And, even though she is his captive, Elyssia finds herself battling with the fact that she might not be so unwilling when it comes to Tavish’s vengeance.

All is not as it seems in the Clan MacLean, however, and both Tavish and Elyssia must face the truth when secrets buried long ago are revealed and a traitor is found in their midst.

I love a Highland romance, and realized this would be on the dark side, but did not realize just how dark it would actually be.  Emily Royal did not romanticize this time period in the least and gave readers a realistic look at the harsh and brutal lifestyle of this time period as well as an intimate look at just how little control a woman had over any aspect of her life, regardless of her station.

I liked Elyssia’s character and how strong and caring she was no matter how much suffering was sent her way.  Her love for her sister, who happened to be childlike even as an adult was beautiful. As for Tavish, I felt he was quite a complex character, especially in his struggles between trying to do what was right for the clan he led vs doing right by a woman being punished for the sins of her father.

My personal issue with this book was with the fact that no matter how much Elyssia was brutalized, and often by Tavish, she still kept going back to him . . .I realize that women rally didn’t have much choice or power if at any during this time period, but it was difficult for me to read and enjoy.  I also had problems with Tavish knowing what he was doing was wrong, yet continuing on his path to please others.

I didn’t feel like The Sins of the Sire was a romance as much as it was a historical statement of the harsh realities of this time period.  Readers should be aware that there is rape and violence and brutality throughout this book in many forms which may trigger or turn off some readers.  That being said, this book was extremely well written with an engaging plot that swiftly pulled readers along with it. While I didn’t always like what was happening, I appreciated the fact that I was invested in the plot and characters and needed to know what happened next and how the story ended.  3.5 stars

The Sins of the Sire

by Emily Royal

 

Two years ago, English noblewoman, Elyssia De Montford, risked her life to free the Highlander held prisoner by her sadistic fiancé. She cannot forget the man who first stirred her heart–a memory that burns anew when she finds herself once more on the road to Scotland.

Tavish MacLean has sworn vengeance. It’s been six years since his beloved sister was raped and murdered by an English lord, a tragedy which almost destroyed his family. On his deathbed, his father demanded retribution and Tavish pledged before his clan to enslave the lord’s daughter then send her back to her father, pregnant with a Scottish bastard. When he learns that she is travelling north, he seizes his opportunity and orders her abduction.

But when his men fling the prisoner before him, Tavish recognises Elyssia, the woman who once saved his life. Loyalty to his clan trumps the debt he owes her and he claims Elyssia as his captive. Though she’s one of the hated English, her willing body ignites passion in him at night, though she fights him at every turn during the day. As time passes, he questions his loyalty, finding himself increasingly enthralled by his fiery captive.

Treachery surrounds Clan MacLean. When long-buried secrets come to light, Tavish must risk his life and his clan, or all that he holds dear will be destroyed.

 

Purchase Links:

Amazon UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B07N974NW5/

Amazon US https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07N974NW5/

Emily Royal is running two giveaways for newsletter subscribers:

Giveaway #1 – notebook + mug with cover image + Scottish treats (UK only)

Giveaway #2 – notebook + 2 Scottish coasters (International)

So long as you are on Emily Royal’s mailing list by 10^th May when the draw is happening, you will be eligible to win. 

To sign up to her list – https://mailchi.mp/e5806720bfe0/emilyroyalauthor

About Emily Royal

Emily Royal is a mathematics geek who grew up in Sussex, UK and has always had a passion for romance and strong alpha heroes. After graduating from Oxford University and enjoying a brief dream of becoming an airline pilot, she started a career in financial services in order to indulge her love of mathematics.

She now lives in rural Scotland with her husband, two daughters, and a menagerie of pets including Twinkle, an attention-seeking boa constrictor. She reignited her passion for romance when she joined the Romantic Novelists’ Association under their New Writers’ Scheme.

When not working on algebra or keeping Twinkle from slithering over the keyboard, Emily enjoys painting and playing the piano. She can often be found wandering about the hills of Scotland looking for inspiration.

 

Social Media Links 

Twitter: @eroyalauthor

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eroyalauthor/

Website: http://www.emroyal.com/