What do you think?
Rate this book
Masters of Time #1
Dark Seduction
Malcolm of Dunroch is a newly chosen Master, a novice to his extraordinary--and dangerous--powers. But he has already broken his vows--and a young woman's death is on his hands. Malcolm is determined to fight his darkest desires, denying himself all pleasure...until fate sends him another Innocent, the beautiful bookseller Claire Camden. Since her mother's murder, Claire has done everything possible to make a safe, secure life for herself in a city where danger lurks on every street corner, especially in the dark of night. But nothing can prepare her for the powerful and sexual medieval warrior who sweeps her back into his time--a treacherous, frightening world where the hunters and the hunted are one and the same. Claire needs Malcolm to survive, yet she must somehow keep the dangerously seductive Master at arm's length. For Malcolm's soul is at stake--and fulfilling his desires could prove fatal....
384 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2007
114 people are currently reading
3387 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Joyce
166Ìýbooks1,286ÌýfollowersBrenda Joyce is the bestselling author of forty-one novels and five novellas. She has won many awards, and her debut novel, Innocent Fire, won a Best Western Romance award. She has also won the highly coveted Best Historical Romance award for Splendor and Two Lifetime Achievement Awards from Romantic Times BOOKreviews. There are over 14 million copies of her novels in print and she is published in over a dozen foreign countries.
A native New Yorker, she now lives in southern Arizona with her son, dogs, and her Arabian and half-Arabian reining horses. Brenda divides her time between her twin passions—writing powerful love stories and competing with her horses at regional and national levels. For more information about Brenda and her upcoming novels, please visit her Web sites: , and .
A native New Yorker, she now lives in southern Arizona with her son, dogs, and her Arabian and half-Arabian reining horses. Brenda divides her time between her twin passions—writing powerful love stories and competing with her horses at regional and national levels. For more information about Brenda and her upcoming novels, please visit her Web sites: , and .
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
March 5, 2013
I had to surrender reading this book. I don't mind sex in books but when I read about her wetness dripping down her legs about 10 times in the first 1/4th of the book, it gets to be distracting to the point that there is no storyline.
May 1, 2010
I know this review is a little late, but a friend of mine just read it, and we chatted about it today. I wanted to see what I'd written, and surprise surprise...I hadn't written anything!
So, this is the beginning of the Masters of Time. The concept is AWESOME! there are these incredibly sexy, sensual Highlanders who can "jump" through time, but only for the greater good, so to speak, they have to live out their lives in their own centuries...usually 13-1600s, depending on which book in this series. But they jump to our time to help kill demons. But there are so few Masters to so many demons. So, with all of this awesomeness, why just a 3 star rating you ask? Well, let me tell you:
Brenda Joyce wants us to understand how sexual and over-sexed these Masters are. In doing so, she sometimes undermines her strong heroines. This book is the worst at doing that.
Claire is a modern 21st century woman who lives in New York, has a gun, kickboxes, and runs a book store. She comes off soo strong, and kickass, then she gets taken with Malcolm to his time, and she is wimpy, weak and irritating. Wishy-washy is the best word. One minute she is strong-I-won't-have-sex-with-macho-jerk-Malcolm-Claire, the next she is I-must-have-sex-with-macho-jerk-Malcolm-Claire. I got tired of the medieval men being called macho pigs, or jerks, or whatever. She should know (she deals with antique books! she should know her history) that they are just products of their time, as is she. If it weren't for that, I'd bump up the book a star, star and a half. The next book is better about that, and they just keep getting better from there.
So, wrapping up, I'd recommend this to others, but I'd recommend the series as a whole, not just one book, and I liked it, it was hot and steamy. I just got annoyed with Claire. Especially cuz I like her, I feel like she is someone I would be friends with, so to see her get wimpy drove me nuts!
So, this is the beginning of the Masters of Time. The concept is AWESOME! there are these incredibly sexy, sensual Highlanders who can "jump" through time, but only for the greater good, so to speak, they have to live out their lives in their own centuries...usually 13-1600s, depending on which book in this series. But they jump to our time to help kill demons. But there are so few Masters to so many demons. So, with all of this awesomeness, why just a 3 star rating you ask? Well, let me tell you:
Brenda Joyce wants us to understand how sexual and over-sexed these Masters are. In doing so, she sometimes undermines her strong heroines. This book is the worst at doing that.
Claire is a modern 21st century woman who lives in New York, has a gun, kickboxes, and runs a book store. She comes off soo strong, and kickass, then she gets taken with Malcolm to his time, and she is wimpy, weak and irritating. Wishy-washy is the best word. One minute she is strong-I-won't-have-sex-with-macho-jerk-Malcolm-Claire, the next she is I-must-have-sex-with-macho-jerk-Malcolm-Claire. I got tired of the medieval men being called macho pigs, or jerks, or whatever. She should know (she deals with antique books! she should know her history) that they are just products of their time, as is she. If it weren't for that, I'd bump up the book a star, star and a half. The next book is better about that, and they just keep getting better from there.
So, wrapping up, I'd recommend this to others, but I'd recommend the series as a whole, not just one book, and I liked it, it was hot and steamy. I just got annoyed with Claire. Especially cuz I like her, I feel like she is someone I would be friends with, so to see her get wimpy drove me nuts!
September 5, 2009
An introdution (and believably so)of time travel to the Scottish Highlands. The warrior makes other hero’s pale in comparison to strength, duty, honor and virility. I could be addicted to the accent and that’s that but really I enjoyed the painstaking care Brenda Joyce took in setting the scene for every thought, feeling and emotion created for the characters. What was most important? The Sex? Yes. The duty to protect he Innocent? Yes. To find what was (supposedly) taken? Yes. All the while each and every aspect was given the clarity of a priceless diamond. Whether or not it is all needed in the end? Read to decide.
July 30, 2011
I really liked this, but I'm thinking maybe I have a different version. Maybe a censored edition. (PG-13) Most of the reviews and comments I read talked about how much sex was in it and how graphic it was. What I read was nothing at all like that. Not complaining. Just saying...
May 8, 2011
You would think that any book featuring time travel, hot highlanders, mystery, conflict and great lovin' would be a recipe for success. Unfortunately, this one just didn't do it for me.
It started with a prologue that felt too old-school "bodice ripper" to me. Now this isn't saying that all bodice rippers are bad. I just wasn't expecting this particular type of vibe in a book that was published within the past couple of years. Then on top of that, we were in a prologue, but in the past, but aren't quite sure if the past happened before the present time or after. There was no explaining until much later.
Then...chapter 1 starts and we're in the present, but I'm still trying to figure out the prologue when all of a sudden new people come in and start wrecking havoc. Wait...what? Can I figure out one thing first before having to piece together something else?
From then on, it all went downhill. Once I started figuring what was going on, I realized I just didn't really care. Malcolm should have been intriguing, especially given his history, but he never really came to life for me.
It started with a prologue that felt too old-school "bodice ripper" to me. Now this isn't saying that all bodice rippers are bad. I just wasn't expecting this particular type of vibe in a book that was published within the past couple of years. Then on top of that, we were in a prologue, but in the past, but aren't quite sure if the past happened before the present time or after. There was no explaining until much later.
Then...chapter 1 starts and we're in the present, but I'm still trying to figure out the prologue when all of a sudden new people come in and start wrecking havoc. Wait...what? Can I figure out one thing first before having to piece together something else?
From then on, it all went downhill. Once I started figuring what was going on, I realized I just didn't really care. Malcolm should have been intriguing, especially given his history, but he never really came to life for me.
October 23, 2017
This just wasn't a good read for me. This story is what happens when tropes get thrown into over drive. The story makes sense, it just wasn't well done. Through sheer force of will I finished Dark Seduction, but I believe this will be re-donated to the thrift store. I am sure someone will get some enjoyment from it, I just didn't.
January 23, 2016
Okay I admit to loving all things Scottish, all things Highlander and pretty much all things Paranormal.. Put them all together in one book and I am a happy camper!
Author Brenda Joyce has basically combined "He-Man" with "Conan The Barbarian" in this series she released back in 2007. The premise of traveling through time to protect the Innocent is not necessarily something new but has been presented in a new way. Malcolm of Dunroch being a Medieval Highlander from the 15th century in no way detracts from his worthiness as a leading character, if anything for me it just serves to make it more appealing as he is confronted with a modern woman who not only manages to capture his sexual interest but also his heart all the while she confuses and scares the living heck out of the poor man... Claire Camden is enjoying her life and planning a long overdue vacation when the bookstore she owns is invaded by what appears to be a deranged woman who is looking for a page from a book that Claire has never heard of before...
What we have is a story that grabs the readers imagination, is full of the most intriguing and sensual male heros to salivate over and enjoy learning about! I have a strong admiration for the time and care that was spent on perfecting the characters of Malcolm, Inkheart, Royce, Aidan and MacNeill.... The villians Moray and Sibylla are compellingly evil and all in all Claire Camden as the leading lady of the piece was also well drawn if at times somewhat inconsistent....
The book takes the reader on a wild journey with Malcolm and Claire that culminates in one of the sweetest and most eagerly awaited Happily Ever After endings that I have had the pleasure to enjoy in a long while...
This book will appeal to anyone who has like me watched every "Highlander" show or movie in the series when it was popular... I also think of course the element of a secret group sworn through time to protect the "Innocent" from harm through all eternity will be something that will capture the readers imagination and in effect make them wish to read every book in the series after reading this one so as to find out what happens to every character who has their own story, I know I want to .... If you love to read Highlander series authors like Karen Marie Moning, Paula Quinn, Diana Gabaldon, Jen Holling and others you will enjoy Brenda Joyce as well!
Author Brenda Joyce has basically combined "He-Man" with "Conan The Barbarian" in this series she released back in 2007. The premise of traveling through time to protect the Innocent is not necessarily something new but has been presented in a new way. Malcolm of Dunroch being a Medieval Highlander from the 15th century in no way detracts from his worthiness as a leading character, if anything for me it just serves to make it more appealing as he is confronted with a modern woman who not only manages to capture his sexual interest but also his heart all the while she confuses and scares the living heck out of the poor man... Claire Camden is enjoying her life and planning a long overdue vacation when the bookstore she owns is invaded by what appears to be a deranged woman who is looking for a page from a book that Claire has never heard of before...
What we have is a story that grabs the readers imagination, is full of the most intriguing and sensual male heros to salivate over and enjoy learning about! I have a strong admiration for the time and care that was spent on perfecting the characters of Malcolm, Inkheart, Royce, Aidan and MacNeill.... The villians Moray and Sibylla are compellingly evil and all in all Claire Camden as the leading lady of the piece was also well drawn if at times somewhat inconsistent....
The book takes the reader on a wild journey with Malcolm and Claire that culminates in one of the sweetest and most eagerly awaited Happily Ever After endings that I have had the pleasure to enjoy in a long while...
This book will appeal to anyone who has like me watched every "Highlander" show or movie in the series when it was popular... I also think of course the element of a secret group sworn through time to protect the "Innocent" from harm through all eternity will be something that will capture the readers imagination and in effect make them wish to read every book in the series after reading this one so as to find out what happens to every character who has their own story, I know I want to .... If you love to read Highlander series authors like Karen Marie Moning, Paula Quinn, Diana Gabaldon, Jen Holling and others you will enjoy Brenda Joyce as well!
October 28, 2012
Meh. I love romance books, the steamier the better. I love paranormal romance. This was.... meh.
The brogue used throughout the dialog was too thick. I had a hard time reading it, and it seemed that making the characters sound a certain way was more important than what they were actually saying. The male characters were too gorgeous, too macho, too romance novel perfect. I can't believe I just wrote that, but it's true.
I would definitely put this in the beach read category. The characters were kind of flat, the story had no urgency, but it was entertaining enough that I didn't feel my time was wasted on the reading.
I'm not sure that this will stay on my bookshelf to read again. It was interesting enough that I am will be reading more from this series, so I guess how I like those will determine whether or not I will keep this book.
The brogue used throughout the dialog was too thick. I had a hard time reading it, and it seemed that making the characters sound a certain way was more important than what they were actually saying. The male characters were too gorgeous, too macho, too romance novel perfect. I can't believe I just wrote that, but it's true.
I would definitely put this in the beach read category. The characters were kind of flat, the story had no urgency, but it was entertaining enough that I didn't feel my time was wasted on the reading.
I'm not sure that this will stay on my bookshelf to read again. It was interesting enough that I am will be reading more from this series, so I guess how I like those will determine whether or not I will keep this book.
January 30, 2011
Review:
Let me start by saying I chose this book for several reasons, one being hot cover, two I loved the premise and three I have been aching to get back to my original love which is historical romance. This book covers all that which I love and missed, Highlanders(my new found addiction), a bit of paranormal(well if you want to call Good vs Evil)Time Travel, and History(Yay!). It had been so long since I have read anything to do with history that when I turned the first page, I felt like I just slipped back into a favorite pair of comfy slippers.
Malcolm is the typical (hot I might add) He man warrior/highlander who's job is to protect the innocents, little did he know when he would meet Claire his world would be changed forever.
Claire is a woman who is used to defending herself, a woman of the now time so when Malcolm comes into her life- there is a constant battle between her heart and wanting to remain independent as well as keeping Malcolm safe.
While the Scottish accent through me for a bit, it didn't take me long to fall in love with this book and Malcolm who could not love a big strong warrior who just wanted to protect you.
What Did I Like:
I liked that the Author didn't confuse you with the time jumps, I have read some books where I was confused and this one did not do that it flowed smoothly. I also liked the world building she didn't get overbearing with it and I understood completely what and who the Masters of Time were.
Overall It was wonderful to go back into time to 1427 Scotland and picture how a modern Claire dealt with the differences between her world and his.
Would I recommend it Yes, if you love Highlanders, Time Travel and Steamy Romance this book is for you. Would I continue with the series? Yes!
My rating for this book 4.5 stars out of 5
Let me start by saying I chose this book for several reasons, one being hot cover, two I loved the premise and three I have been aching to get back to my original love which is historical romance. This book covers all that which I love and missed, Highlanders(my new found addiction), a bit of paranormal(well if you want to call Good vs Evil)Time Travel, and History(Yay!). It had been so long since I have read anything to do with history that when I turned the first page, I felt like I just slipped back into a favorite pair of comfy slippers.
Malcolm is the typical (hot I might add) He man warrior/highlander who's job is to protect the innocents, little did he know when he would meet Claire his world would be changed forever.
Claire is a woman who is used to defending herself, a woman of the now time so when Malcolm comes into her life- there is a constant battle between her heart and wanting to remain independent as well as keeping Malcolm safe.
While the Scottish accent through me for a bit, it didn't take me long to fall in love with this book and Malcolm who could not love a big strong warrior who just wanted to protect you.
What Did I Like:
I liked that the Author didn't confuse you with the time jumps, I have read some books where I was confused and this one did not do that it flowed smoothly. I also liked the world building she didn't get overbearing with it and I understood completely what and who the Masters of Time were.
Overall It was wonderful to go back into time to 1427 Scotland and picture how a modern Claire dealt with the differences between her world and his.
Would I recommend it Yes, if you love Highlanders, Time Travel and Steamy Romance this book is for you. Would I continue with the series? Yes!
My rating for this book 4.5 stars out of 5
May 9, 2011
There was very little that I can rave over in this story, but I didn't want to hot poker my eye's anywhere in it so it gets a 2 star/okay rating.
My negatives...
I never connected to Malcolm, and I really did not like Claire. He was mostly boring and just a little too condescending and arrogant for me. I know it's odd that I would say that and I'm head over heels for Barrons, but the difference is that Barrons is arrogant and condescending but he's also got a really distinct sexy unique personality. Malcolm just felt like he was written so one-dimensional that it made his cavemanness just a little to much to handle.
With Claire I just got tired of hearing her whine and cry. She was a wimpy girl character. I'm sorry, but Malcolm saying 'ye be strong, arrrr' over and over didn't necessarily make me believe it. And the stupid crap that she did sometimes (um... that one thing that I wont name that took place at court)! I love when an author writes a human realistic decision in a book, even if it's maybe a poor one, but when the character has fictional tourette's syndrome in terms of action and reaction... well let's just say there were a few times I was laughing at the lunacy and rolling my eyes.
The story was generic. Everything that did happen, I expected to happen. The things that felt like they were trying to be creative or spontaneous were just so outrageous or contrived that I just didn't believe it. I felt like I was reading a parody of a romance novel, with everything exaggerated.
The positives...
I enjoyed the secondary characters like Royce, Ironheart and Aiden. If I ever run out of things to read (not likely) I may actually read the next two books, since they're about Royce and Aiden.
My negatives...
I never connected to Malcolm, and I really did not like Claire. He was mostly boring and just a little too condescending and arrogant for me. I know it's odd that I would say that and I'm head over heels for Barrons, but the difference is that Barrons is arrogant and condescending but he's also got a really distinct sexy unique personality. Malcolm just felt like he was written so one-dimensional that it made his cavemanness just a little to much to handle.
With Claire I just got tired of hearing her whine and cry. She was a wimpy girl character. I'm sorry, but Malcolm saying 'ye be strong, arrrr' over and over didn't necessarily make me believe it. And the stupid crap that she did sometimes (um... that one thing that I wont name that took place at court)! I love when an author writes a human realistic decision in a book, even if it's maybe a poor one, but when the character has fictional tourette's syndrome in terms of action and reaction... well let's just say there were a few times I was laughing at the lunacy and rolling my eyes.
The story was generic. Everything that did happen, I expected to happen. The things that felt like they were trying to be creative or spontaneous were just so outrageous or contrived that I just didn't believe it. I felt like I was reading a parody of a romance novel, with everything exaggerated.
The positives...
I enjoyed the secondary characters like Royce, Ironheart and Aiden. If I ever run out of things to read (not likely) I may actually read the next two books, since they're about Royce and Aiden.
February 27, 2010
First, I must say thank you to my good friend Laurie who recommened these books to me!
I found very enjoyable, fast paced and sexy.
The entire premise that the Masters of time have an insatiable appetite for pleasure is quite intriguing...They feed on the ecstacy itself. The Masters are a disciplined and secret brotherhood that exists to ensure the safety of innocents and protection of humanity...
Please visit my blog for the rest of this review
October 7, 2012
1hr into the book - It's no secret that I feel any and all books featuring highlanders should be narrated by a man. This book is no acception, this REALLY REALLY REALLY should have been narrated by a man........le sigh. Ps - the narrator's brogue SUCKS!!
Back to the book....
ok the narrator really started to bug me and I just couldn't get into the book. I'm going to skip this and listen to some other books that I really do want to read and try this one again in a week or so.
2.5hrs into the book and I'm still annoyed. This narrator has the highlanders sounding like scottish pirates. WTH?!?!
Back to the book....
ok the narrator really started to bug me and I just couldn't get into the book. I'm going to skip this and listen to some other books that I really do want to read and try this one again in a week or so.
2.5hrs into the book and I'm still annoyed. This narrator has the highlanders sounding like scottish pirates. WTH?!?!
August 12, 2008
This book is so bad I got halfway through and then skimmed the rest, merely to find out if the bits at the beginning would ever make sense, and just to see if what I'd predicted would happen, happened. Surprise surprise, it did.
The premise is interesting enough but what book am I talking about here: An American woman called Claire goes back in time to the Scottish Highlands and falls in love with a big Scottish warrior? Yes, it does sound awfully like Outlander, doesn't it? Joyce could have at least given her a different name. The Scottish warrior in this case, Malcolm, is a Master, an immortal-ish member of an ancient brotherhood that answers to ancient Gods (older than Christendom, though bizarrely enough Malcolm says he's Catholic) and seeks to protect Innocence from Evil. Alright, fair enough, though I'm really not a fan of black and white labels like Evil.
The biggest problem with this book - apart from the plotholes, inconsistencies, amazing leaps of reasoning, conveniently forgotten details and weak, repetitious characterisation - is Claire herself. I don't think I've ever read a more annoying heroine (and having read as much paranormal romance as I have, that's saying something). She's whiny, clingy, slow, poorly defined, agonises over things even after she's come to a resolution about them, internalises everything, goes on and on in her head over the same tired old points, and I honestly don't get the attraction between her and Malcolm.
The story itself is slow and uneventful, the Evil character is laughable, and the plotholes so deep I tripped numerous times. Just note the early chapter when Claire first encounters Sibyll and Malcolm at her bookshop, and what they say when they meet her. Keep it in mind. It won't make sense later, and that's just one of the many frustrating things about this book.
The sex scenes were awful, icky, emotionally-uninvolved/detached things. I've never been so put off. But really, Claire? Talk about utter drongo. And she's supposed to have a Masters degree in medieval history!
Give this one a BIG MISS - and I'm not going to bother reading anything else by this author either. HQN's paranormal romances are more often duds than successes, it seems.
The premise is interesting enough but what book am I talking about here: An American woman called Claire goes back in time to the Scottish Highlands and falls in love with a big Scottish warrior? Yes, it does sound awfully like Outlander, doesn't it? Joyce could have at least given her a different name. The Scottish warrior in this case, Malcolm, is a Master, an immortal-ish member of an ancient brotherhood that answers to ancient Gods (older than Christendom, though bizarrely enough Malcolm says he's Catholic) and seeks to protect Innocence from Evil. Alright, fair enough, though I'm really not a fan of black and white labels like Evil.
The biggest problem with this book - apart from the plotholes, inconsistencies, amazing leaps of reasoning, conveniently forgotten details and weak, repetitious characterisation - is Claire herself. I don't think I've ever read a more annoying heroine (and having read as much paranormal romance as I have, that's saying something). She's whiny, clingy, slow, poorly defined, agonises over things even after she's come to a resolution about them, internalises everything, goes on and on in her head over the same tired old points, and I honestly don't get the attraction between her and Malcolm.
The story itself is slow and uneventful, the Evil character is laughable, and the plotholes so deep I tripped numerous times. Just note the early chapter when Claire first encounters Sibyll and Malcolm at her bookshop, and what they say when they meet her. Keep it in mind. It won't make sense later, and that's just one of the many frustrating things about this book.
The sex scenes were awful, icky, emotionally-uninvolved/detached things. I've never been so put off. But really, Claire? Talk about utter drongo. And she's supposed to have a Masters degree in medieval history!
Give this one a BIG MISS - and I'm not going to bother reading anything else by this author either. HQN's paranormal romances are more often duds than successes, it seems.
July 2, 2012
Once I started reading this, I thought for sure I wasn't going to like it. The overall story is about a group of super-men, called Masters, that are descendants of the old gods. Ok, so far not too bad, but there's a catch. One of their many powers is the power to mesmerize women and have their way with them (this is a romance), and if they lose control, or if they are just super evil bad guys, they can drain their sexual partner of life and use it to temporarily give them more power. This was the part that had me a little too wierded out...even for a paranormal story.
The saving grace....the characters and the story itself. Have you ever wondered what would happen if you dropped a modern day single and independant woman into the medieval ages? Well, I actually have, and this book dips right into all the what if's you could possibly ask for. As our leading lady Claire finds herself in the far far ago Highlands, she finds herself ordered around and considered as nothing more than eye candy and mother material. Claire, who is used to taking care of herself in the big city is constantly at odds with the super men Masters that are smothering her.
Our main man is also the primary smotherer (is that a word?). Malcolm is flabbergasted to find that Claire just won't meekly run off and do as he orders (yes orders) her to do. There are quite a few interesting arguments about time periods and what she should be allowed to do. Well, they were interesting at first and then they got a bit boring and repetitive.
So off our two mains go to hunt down the evil Master, that is actaully hunting them. There are a few twists and turns along the way, and we find more and more about the past of our two stars and how they are linked in so many more ways that you think at first. If you can get your mind over or around the 'I'm going to have sex with you, but I may steal your lifeforce' part of the book, you will find a great medieval romance along with a fascinating tale of fighting not only the evil around you, but the evil within you as well.
3.5/5 (I havent decided if I'm going to continue the series or not)
The saving grace....the characters and the story itself. Have you ever wondered what would happen if you dropped a modern day single and independant woman into the medieval ages? Well, I actually have, and this book dips right into all the what if's you could possibly ask for. As our leading lady Claire finds herself in the far far ago Highlands, she finds herself ordered around and considered as nothing more than eye candy and mother material. Claire, who is used to taking care of herself in the big city is constantly at odds with the super men Masters that are smothering her.
Our main man is also the primary smotherer (is that a word?). Malcolm is flabbergasted to find that Claire just won't meekly run off and do as he orders (yes orders) her to do. There are quite a few interesting arguments about time periods and what she should be allowed to do. Well, they were interesting at first and then they got a bit boring and repetitive.
So off our two mains go to hunt down the evil Master, that is actaully hunting them. There are a few twists and turns along the way, and we find more and more about the past of our two stars and how they are linked in so many more ways that you think at first. If you can get your mind over or around the 'I'm going to have sex with you, but I may steal your lifeforce' part of the book, you will find a great medieval romance along with a fascinating tale of fighting not only the evil around you, but the evil within you as well.
3.5/5 (I havent decided if I'm going to continue the series or not)
May 9, 2011
This was a new genre for me! Although not new to the "modern woman time travels back in time" element, the voracious sex took a bit getting use to. I did appreciate the protagonist as a modern educated, independent woman with high morals. Claire, a scholar of medieval Europe and owner of a book store that specialized in rare and valuable antique books, finds herself face to face with a medieval Highlander one night. She is swept back in time by Malcolm Laird of Dunroch, a Master of time and protector of the Innocent, to 15th century Scotland.
Malcolm is determined to keep Claire safe from a relentless evil that pursues them. Of course her modern ways mixed with his chauvinistic ones don't mix well at first. It is only after Claire shows infinite courage, determination to not fall victim and willingness to fight side by side to defend and protect this new found family of Masters, does Malcolm see her in a new light.
Yes, the sex is over the top but I still managed to grow some affection for Claire and Malcolm as well as his extended family Royce, Aidan and Ironheart.
This story truly is one of ambitious fantasy. I for one could not take an insatiable gorgeous highlander indefinitely. A fun read with sporadic colorful depictions of medieval Scotland. Some silly, even corny dialogue, as well as some clever quote worthy passages.
“Her expertise was medieval European history, not Highland History, but she had certainly dabbled in the latter. It was filled with intrigue, conspiracy, bloodshed, murder and warfare. Reading about it in a classroom had thrilled her. Living it was an entirely different matter.
Claire knew she had to put her fear aside and find calm in order to think. But her composure was in shreds. Two large, silent Scots, apparently assigned to escort her, rode on each side of her. Claire focused on deep breathing while trying to think happy thoughts... She started to laugh, feeling hysterical, images of the bloody battle and severed heads vying with images of Malcolm's lust-ravaged face in her mind. She wasn't calm-she didn't think she would ever be calm again."
Malcolm is determined to keep Claire safe from a relentless evil that pursues them. Of course her modern ways mixed with his chauvinistic ones don't mix well at first. It is only after Claire shows infinite courage, determination to not fall victim and willingness to fight side by side to defend and protect this new found family of Masters, does Malcolm see her in a new light.
Yes, the sex is over the top but I still managed to grow some affection for Claire and Malcolm as well as his extended family Royce, Aidan and Ironheart.
This story truly is one of ambitious fantasy. I for one could not take an insatiable gorgeous highlander indefinitely. A fun read with sporadic colorful depictions of medieval Scotland. Some silly, even corny dialogue, as well as some clever quote worthy passages.
“Her expertise was medieval European history, not Highland History, but she had certainly dabbled in the latter. It was filled with intrigue, conspiracy, bloodshed, murder and warfare. Reading about it in a classroom had thrilled her. Living it was an entirely different matter.
Claire knew she had to put her fear aside and find calm in order to think. But her composure was in shreds. Two large, silent Scots, apparently assigned to escort her, rode on each side of her. Claire focused on deep breathing while trying to think happy thoughts... She started to laugh, feeling hysterical, images of the bloody battle and severed heads vying with images of Malcolm's lust-ravaged face in her mind. She wasn't calm-she didn't think she would ever be calm again."
March 16, 2010
Okay, this is not a book to recommend to your mother or any teens. Racey but with a really clever story. Time travel, hunky Scots, romance, and the battle between good and evil, what more could you want!
July 14, 2020
Sesssssso, noia e...Duracel!
Che delusione, una lettura con un buon potenziale di base e con una scrittrice da cui mi aspettavo decisamente di più ma che mi ha lasciato l'amaro in bocca pagina dopo pagina.
La parte relativa al potenziale hot e del sesso era di un improbabile e di un delirante inconsistente davvero ridicolo. No ho mai letto fino ad ora scene così povere ma allo stesso tempo inconcepibili dove orgasmi multipli e contemporanei e sovrapposti da entrambi o una sola parte si contendevano una stessa sola frase ed anche malamente concepita...ridicolo!
L'unica parte salvabile è quella storica scenografica delle Highlands o comunque della Scozia che, una volta conosciute ed amate con la Gabaldon, non reggono il confronto appieno. Uniche queste, parti omogenee e realizzabili con cognizione di causa che riusciva in qualche modo a dare un'impronta stabile alla trama.
I personaggi principali invece lasciano totalmente a desiderare, senza mordente, spinti solo da un cervelletto intimo sessuale che faceva contraddire ogni tematica intatto, spirituale, storica, loquace e chi più ne ha più ne metta...uno scempio lei ed uno scempio quasi salvabile lui. Anche se la sua dotazione era ammirevole, la sua durata o la sua inscenata era una delle scene più sfrontatamente ingloriosa che si potevano leggere. Lei poi, consentitemi il termine, cacasotto da morire, ma maschilista o sessista 85% della vicenda.
Tutto questo mi porta a non proseguire la serie. Non vale la candela anche se speravo di andare sul sicuro con la Joyce ma mi devo ricredere.
Sarà molto probabilmente più credibile con i racconti storici a questo punto, oppure quello che si era fumata era roba tagliata male!
Due stelle e un + sicuramente, ma null'altro a voler essere buoni! bhà ...
Che delusione, una lettura con un buon potenziale di base e con una scrittrice da cui mi aspettavo decisamente di più ma che mi ha lasciato l'amaro in bocca pagina dopo pagina.
La parte relativa al potenziale hot e del sesso era di un improbabile e di un delirante inconsistente davvero ridicolo. No ho mai letto fino ad ora scene così povere ma allo stesso tempo inconcepibili dove orgasmi multipli e contemporanei e sovrapposti da entrambi o una sola parte si contendevano una stessa sola frase ed anche malamente concepita...ridicolo!
L'unica parte salvabile è quella storica scenografica delle Highlands o comunque della Scozia che, una volta conosciute ed amate con la Gabaldon, non reggono il confronto appieno. Uniche queste, parti omogenee e realizzabili con cognizione di causa che riusciva in qualche modo a dare un'impronta stabile alla trama.
I personaggi principali invece lasciano totalmente a desiderare, senza mordente, spinti solo da un cervelletto intimo sessuale che faceva contraddire ogni tematica intatto, spirituale, storica, loquace e chi più ne ha più ne metta...uno scempio lei ed uno scempio quasi salvabile lui. Anche se la sua dotazione era ammirevole, la sua durata o la sua inscenata era una delle scene più sfrontatamente ingloriosa che si potevano leggere. Lei poi, consentitemi il termine, cacasotto da morire, ma maschilista o sessista 85% della vicenda.
Tutto questo mi porta a non proseguire la serie. Non vale la candela anche se speravo di andare sul sicuro con la Joyce ma mi devo ricredere.
Sarà molto probabilmente più credibile con i racconti storici a questo punto, oppure quello che si era fumata era roba tagliata male!
Due stelle e un + sicuramente, ma null'altro a voler essere buoni! bhà ...
May 25, 2017
Questo è il paranormal romance,meno romance che abbia mai letto fino ad ora!
Non so se sia colpa di una pessima traduzione in intaliano,oltre che di tagli,ma accade tutto talmente in fretta che è quasi imbarazzante da leggere.
Tutti i personaggi,sia buoni che cattivi,sono freddi e non mi hanno trasmesso alcuna emozione; si scopre il "mistero" della pagina perduta dopo pochissimi capitoli e anche la storia d'amore non regge proprio ( Malcolm,il guerriero Highlander, si rotola sul pavimento con la sua Claire,nel bel mezzo di un salto temporale,così...senza neppure quasi conoscersi un attimo). Inoltre ci sono tanti elementi buttati proprio a caso che mi hanno fatto quasi ridire. Salvo solo l'idea della storia che,però,non è per nulla sfruttata bene.
Insomma,mi sa che mi leggerò alla veloce la serie solo per curiosità di vedere se è tutta imbarazzante come questo primo libro.
Non so se sia colpa di una pessima traduzione in intaliano,oltre che di tagli,ma accade tutto talmente in fretta che è quasi imbarazzante da leggere.
Tutti i personaggi,sia buoni che cattivi,sono freddi e non mi hanno trasmesso alcuna emozione; si scopre il "mistero" della pagina perduta dopo pochissimi capitoli e anche la storia d'amore non regge proprio ( Malcolm,il guerriero Highlander, si rotola sul pavimento con la sua Claire,nel bel mezzo di un salto temporale,così...senza neppure quasi conoscersi un attimo). Inoltre ci sono tanti elementi buttati proprio a caso che mi hanno fatto quasi ridire. Salvo solo l'idea della storia che,però,non è per nulla sfruttata bene.
Insomma,mi sa che mi leggerò alla veloce la serie solo per curiosità di vedere se è tutta imbarazzante come questo primo libro.
April 27, 2018
En realidad 3.5
El último cuarto del libro fue lo que más me gustó. En sà la historia se me hizo lenta y el tema del poder tan desmesurado de atracción sexual se me hizo demasiado. Todo gira en base al sexo, se me hizo un poco chocante al principio un exceso. Pero esto es ficción asà que qué se puede esperar. Sin embargo después se puso interesante, tantos misterios y por Dios, Aidan se me hace súper interesante y ya quiero leer sobre él. El final me gustó, espero las historias mejores. No fue mala esta pero pudo ser mejor, pero como primer libro hay mucho que contar por cómo es el mundo de los demonios.
El último cuarto del libro fue lo que más me gustó. En sà la historia se me hizo lenta y el tema del poder tan desmesurado de atracción sexual se me hizo demasiado. Todo gira en base al sexo, se me hizo un poco chocante al principio un exceso. Pero esto es ficción asà que qué se puede esperar. Sin embargo después se puso interesante, tantos misterios y por Dios, Aidan se me hace súper interesante y ya quiero leer sobre él. El final me gustó, espero las historias mejores. No fue mala esta pero pudo ser mejor, pero como primer libro hay mucho que contar por cómo es el mundo de los demonios.
September 15, 2019
2,5 etoile
May 1, 2011
E' quando leggo un libro come questo che poi mi dico che con questo genere io dovrei metterci una pietra sopra e dichiarare incompatibilità .
Come Harmony, Dark Seduction fa il suo lavoro in maniera sufficiente (oddio, la stragrande maggioranza delle scene hot erano di una noia mortale, incapaci di darmi la minima connessione emotiva, e con la parvenza di essere scritte solo per raggiungere il quorum minimo condizione sine qua non per la pubblicazione, ma non stiamo a guardare le sottigliezze), ma come romanzo a più ampio respiro? Fail.
E fallimento due volte perché, dannazione, la stoffa per tirarne fuori qualcosa di più ce n'era. Ora, se prendo i romanzi della Showalter (quell'unico che ho letto dei demoni, intendo), non è che ci si aspetta granché dal punto di vista trama, proprio perché di stoffa non ce ne sta. Ma qui di materiale ce n'è e pare persino che l'autrice possa sfruttarlo. Ahimé, alla fine dei conti, non è così.
Lo sfondo delle vicende, le splendide Highland scozzesi, potrebbero essere Riccione e la riviera Romagnola per la capacità dell'autrice di conferire atmosfera ai luoghi. Idem tutto il resto dell'ambientazione medioevale (sì, ci dice che è tutto splendido, ma non ce lo fa sentire, non ce lo fa vedere, non ce lo fa respirare, damnit!) I personaggi, di cui si vede un potenziale decente (lo zio centenario, il fratellastro, l'eroe, eccetera) sono fondamentalmente ridotti a una serie infinita di machi medioevali senza null'altro sotto (sì, ogni doppio senso è voluto). Il conflitto con Moray è risolto con una velocità che i fotoni di luci sono invidiosi (e davvero, se la soluzione è quella, perché mai renderlo una presenza così malefica?), la storia d'amore vive un unico vero momento di "impossibilità ", per il resto è tutto angst artefatto, aka insopportabile perché percepito come assolutamente falso.
Ora, io sono la prima che apprezza una storia d'amore da romanzo solo se adeguatamente contrastata. Ma il contrasto deve essere reale. Il pericolo deve essere reale. I motivi delle esitazioni devono essere reali. Altrimenti? Fail. Almeno per quello che mi riguarda.
Infine (o forse no ;) ), va bene fare sesso 24/7, ma ci sono momenti e momenti. Farlo sempre anche quando ci sono cose più importanti attorno a sé non è macho, non è sexy, non è romantico: è solo stupido e irritante. IMO, of course.
Ah, e dove diavolo è finito Aidan? Il personaggio più interessante del lotto, fatto sparire così, all'improvviso *sigh* Capisco che ci saranno altri 2234471009 sequel, ma la visione di insieme in un romanzo conta, e sì, lo so che è tipico di un Harmony appiccicarsi alla love-couple a ignorare il resto quando non serve più, ma visto che anche se è un harmony rimane pur sempre un romanzo... fail.
Ah due, e la fine? Do not like it. E non perché quello che avviene, che è l'unica cosa logica, ma per il come. Come se ci fossero mai stati dubbi su un qualcosa di diverso. Ecco, quando parlo di angst pre-fabbricato inutilmente. Questo. Sigh.
Come Harmony, Dark Seduction fa il suo lavoro in maniera sufficiente (oddio, la stragrande maggioranza delle scene hot erano di una noia mortale, incapaci di darmi la minima connessione emotiva, e con la parvenza di essere scritte solo per raggiungere il quorum minimo condizione sine qua non per la pubblicazione, ma non stiamo a guardare le sottigliezze), ma come romanzo a più ampio respiro? Fail.
E fallimento due volte perché, dannazione, la stoffa per tirarne fuori qualcosa di più ce n'era. Ora, se prendo i romanzi della Showalter (quell'unico che ho letto dei demoni, intendo), non è che ci si aspetta granché dal punto di vista trama, proprio perché di stoffa non ce ne sta. Ma qui di materiale ce n'è e pare persino che l'autrice possa sfruttarlo. Ahimé, alla fine dei conti, non è così.
Lo sfondo delle vicende, le splendide Highland scozzesi, potrebbero essere Riccione e la riviera Romagnola per la capacità dell'autrice di conferire atmosfera ai luoghi. Idem tutto il resto dell'ambientazione medioevale (sì, ci dice che è tutto splendido, ma non ce lo fa sentire, non ce lo fa vedere, non ce lo fa respirare, damnit!) I personaggi, di cui si vede un potenziale decente (lo zio centenario, il fratellastro, l'eroe, eccetera) sono fondamentalmente ridotti a una serie infinita di machi medioevali senza null'altro sotto (sì, ogni doppio senso è voluto). Il conflitto con Moray è risolto con una velocità che i fotoni di luci sono invidiosi (e davvero, se la soluzione è quella, perché mai renderlo una presenza così malefica?), la storia d'amore vive un unico vero momento di "impossibilità ", per il resto è tutto angst artefatto, aka insopportabile perché percepito come assolutamente falso.
Ora, io sono la prima che apprezza una storia d'amore da romanzo solo se adeguatamente contrastata. Ma il contrasto deve essere reale. Il pericolo deve essere reale. I motivi delle esitazioni devono essere reali. Altrimenti? Fail. Almeno per quello che mi riguarda.
Infine (o forse no ;) ), va bene fare sesso 24/7, ma ci sono momenti e momenti. Farlo sempre anche quando ci sono cose più importanti attorno a sé non è macho, non è sexy, non è romantico: è solo stupido e irritante. IMO, of course.
Ah, e dove diavolo è finito Aidan? Il personaggio più interessante del lotto, fatto sparire così, all'improvviso *sigh* Capisco che ci saranno altri 2234471009 sequel, ma la visione di insieme in un romanzo conta, e sì, lo so che è tipico di un Harmony appiccicarsi alla love-couple a ignorare il resto quando non serve più, ma visto che anche se è un harmony rimane pur sempre un romanzo... fail.
Ah due, e la fine? Do not like it. E non perché quello che avviene, che è l'unica cosa logica, ma per il come. Come se ci fossero mai stati dubbi su un qualcosa di diverso. Ecco, quando parlo di angst pre-fabbricato inutilmente. Questo. Sigh.
June 7, 2010
Although, Brenda Joyce is best known for her historical romances (the deWarenne Dynasty series), the introduction of The Master of Time (MoT), a series of paranormal romances feature some of her more ambitious works.
Having enjoyed reading the Rose Trilogy, which is part of the MoT series, I decided to reacquaint myself with the paranormal with Dark Seduction. Within the initial pages, the writing was immediately gripping and erotic, which is a departure from what is usually a demure beginning to her historicals.
Consistent with other novels in the MoT series, the hero embodies power, blatant male sexuality, and yes, chauvinism. The hero is Malcolm of Dunroch, a Medieval highlander who meets his match in Claire Camden, a modern woman, whose willfulness and stubbornness both exasperate and impress him. Malcolm is not your typical hero, he is an actual superhero. He is a Master, part of a secret brotherhood made up of extraordinary men who possess superior strength and powers for the purpose of protecting Innocence, that is mankind from evil. Together they are drawn into Malcolm's medieval world with a supernatural twist.
Supernatural forces aside, although Dark Seduction explore a darker, sensual and explosive world, there are still romantic elements that are often seen in her historicals, and which make them so appealing. The stronger the men, the more damaged they are, and the greater the need for a heroine like Claire. In this case Claire needs to rescue Malcolm and thus capture his heart. The chauvinism is just as much a product of Malcolm's times as it is of his role as Master. He must protect her from evil. Plainly, he is her protector, willing to risk his life for her, and this quality lends itself to providing safety and security and that is very appealing. On the other hand, Claire is her own woman who must look past Malcolm's flaws and her own in order to be together. Though, the chauvinism can put readers off, it complements Malcolm and embody his masculinity and give purpose for Claire's presence.
The MoT series has some of Joyce's more ambitious works, and that is not just because it is a new genre (paranormal) but because of all the research spent to make it as believable and authentic as possible. There is Scottish dialogue, which upon initial reading can confuse or distract readers but it blends in relatively well. As well there is a balance to the extent of the supernatural. Claire's skepticism and eventual belief of the supernatural is parallel to the reader's own believability as well. Initially she is skeptical, but eventually her belief changes, easing the reader to believe or at least accept the story more.
If you're a fan of the deWarenne Dynasty series, then Dark Seduction is a worthwhile read, bearing there is more boldness in characters and sexuality, but the romance between the leading characters is satisfying.
Having enjoyed reading the Rose Trilogy, which is part of the MoT series, I decided to reacquaint myself with the paranormal with Dark Seduction. Within the initial pages, the writing was immediately gripping and erotic, which is a departure from what is usually a demure beginning to her historicals.
Consistent with other novels in the MoT series, the hero embodies power, blatant male sexuality, and yes, chauvinism. The hero is Malcolm of Dunroch, a Medieval highlander who meets his match in Claire Camden, a modern woman, whose willfulness and stubbornness both exasperate and impress him. Malcolm is not your typical hero, he is an actual superhero. He is a Master, part of a secret brotherhood made up of extraordinary men who possess superior strength and powers for the purpose of protecting Innocence, that is mankind from evil. Together they are drawn into Malcolm's medieval world with a supernatural twist.
Supernatural forces aside, although Dark Seduction explore a darker, sensual and explosive world, there are still romantic elements that are often seen in her historicals, and which make them so appealing. The stronger the men, the more damaged they are, and the greater the need for a heroine like Claire. In this case Claire needs to rescue Malcolm and thus capture his heart. The chauvinism is just as much a product of Malcolm's times as it is of his role as Master. He must protect her from evil. Plainly, he is her protector, willing to risk his life for her, and this quality lends itself to providing safety and security and that is very appealing. On the other hand, Claire is her own woman who must look past Malcolm's flaws and her own in order to be together. Though, the chauvinism can put readers off, it complements Malcolm and embody his masculinity and give purpose for Claire's presence.
The MoT series has some of Joyce's more ambitious works, and that is not just because it is a new genre (paranormal) but because of all the research spent to make it as believable and authentic as possible. There is Scottish dialogue, which upon initial reading can confuse or distract readers but it blends in relatively well. As well there is a balance to the extent of the supernatural. Claire's skepticism and eventual belief of the supernatural is parallel to the reader's own believability as well. Initially she is skeptical, but eventually her belief changes, easing the reader to believe or at least accept the story more.
If you're a fan of the deWarenne Dynasty series, then Dark Seduction is a worthwhile read, bearing there is more boldness in characters and sexuality, but the romance between the leading characters is satisfying.
May 6, 2018
4,5 stelline
“La loro bellezza è incantevole. Il loro potere senza limiti. Per secoli la solitudine ha dato loro la caccia, ma all’improvviso un raggio di luce illumina le tenebre della loro esistenza con la promessa di un amore destinato a durare per l’eternità .�
Da oggi vi parlerò di una serie paranormal romance di Brenda Joyce che è stata pubblicata tra il 2007 e il 2009 e si compone di 5 titoli, autoconclusivi ma intrecciati tra loro dove, via via, incontreremo e conosceremo più nello specifico le storie dei personaggi che compaiono in questo primo libro.
Caratteristica comune a tutti i libri sono i viaggi nel tempo. Un tempo passato in cui aitanti e possenti guerrieri delle Highlands, solo a scriverlo mi vengono i bollori, assolutamente sexy nei loro modi bruschi e autoritari così come altrettanto prestanti e focosi, sempre pronti a proteggere l’innocenza, combattono contro le tenebre. Il male, si contrappone a questi guerrieri che sono anche Maestri di un culto antichissimo che dona loro poteri speciali, tra i quali ovviamente, quello di spostarsi nel tempo e nei secoli. E poi ci sono loro, le donne, la parte più intrigante della storia. Sono donne moderne, autonome e indipendenti che si ritrovano nella Scozia del 1400 catapultate in un mondo molto lontano da ciò che conoscono, ma anche affascinante con i suoi guerrieri e i pericoli e i Maestri con la loro carica di testosterone che gridano passione da ogni poro. Il contorno indispensabile per una perfetta storia d’amore. Non mancano una serie di scene spassosissime legate proprio all’incontro/scontro iniziale tra personaggi che appartengono ad epoche diverse e lontane e alle inevitabili incomprensioni, tutto abilmente mescolato per regalarci emozioni e avventura.
Mi sembrava doveroso iniziare con una cornice che illustrasse l’intera serie ma oggi vi parlo del primo libro: DARK SEDUCTION.
Premetto che pur essendo adesso una grande appassionata di romanzi time travel, quando ho letto la prima volta questo libro ero assolutamente ignara del loro fascino. Accadde in estate, presi un libro a caso dalla libreria di prestiti disponibile in spiaggia, trovai questo e lo lessi innamorandomi all’istante della storia e dei suoi personaggi. A vacanza conclusa, pur essendomi ripromessa di appuntarmi il titolo e autore, me ne dimenticai e così rimase un ricordo, una traccia che mi condusse poi ai libri della Gabaldon o della Moning. Immaginate la sorpresa quando ho scelto questa serie da recensire e leggendo ho ritrovato con grande e piacevole sorpresa il padrino e la madrina di tutti le mie future letture sul genere. Ecco, cercherò di essere obiettiva ma sappiate che questa è una di quelle serie che non è possibile non aver letto.
L’autrice scrive con un stile diretto, scorrevole e semplice lasciando ai personaggi e alla storia tutto lo spazio che meritano. Piacevoli le descrizioni dei luoghi in cui sono ambientate le diverse vicende anche se non precisissime da un punto di vista storico e di ricerca accurata sui modi e usanze. Molto accattivanti i diversi personaggi che presenta, inclusi quelli di minor rilievo, con descrizioni accurate e senza dilungarsi eccessivamente. Ultima osservazione, in questo primo libro riusciamo ad avvicinare in prima istanza alcuni dei protagonisti dei romanzi futuri, aspetto che ho molto apprezzato perché mi piace leggere le serie in cui, alla fine, mettendo insieme tutti i libri, si ha la sensazione di sapere molto più di quanto viene narrato in un determinato libro o capitolo. Come se l’autrice ci regalasse la possibilità di una visione a 360° di un tutto che si sta definendo e il lettore fosse un osservatore anch’esso capace di muoversi nel tempo e nei ricordi come i protagonisti.
In questo libro Conosciamo Claire nella sua vita quotidiana a New York, nella sua libreria. In procinto di partire per la Scozia per una vacanza che sogna da tempo in un luogo da cui si sente inspiegabilmente attratta. Claire vive la sua vita indipendente e autonoma ma sempre ammantata dal ricordo della morte violenta di sua madre, riportata sui giornali come Pleasure crime. Può sembrare ripetitivo il nominare così spesso questo termine e collegarlo ad una paura quasi ancestrale della protagonista ma in realtà tutto si spiega più avanti, proseguendo nella lettura.
Quando Claire e Malcolm si incontrano la prima volta, la situazione è molto critica e decisamente fuori dagli schemi. La povera Claire si ritrova improvvisamente coinvolta in un duello tra due immensi uomini abbigliati in una maniera non convenzionale ed armati di spade, poco prima una donna ha fatto irruzione nel suo negozio super protetto da allarmi e serrature senza la benché minima fatica e tutti e tre cercano la pagina di un libro che credono essere occultato da lei. Poco dopo in un trambusto di incomprensioni e necessità di resistere ad una attrazione fisica impellente e inspiegabile, Claire e Malcolm si ritrovano su un prato, ammaccati e doloranti, soprattutto lei. Ma non è già più a New York, Malcolm l’ha portata con sé in Scozia, vicino ai territori di cui lui è il Signore, in un castello antico e protetto e� nel 1400!! Da qui in poi inizia la loro storia. Tra screzi, incomprensioni, differenze culturali, una cosa sembra prevalere tra tutte: la potente attrazione che unisce i due protagonisti. La loro è una storia d’amore emozionante, intensa, travolgente, che sboccia e fiorisce mentre i loro corpi bramano la passione che li spinge l’uno tra le braccia dell’altra nonostante le inquietudini e le incertezze, nonostante il divario culturale ed a prescindere dalle ferme prese di posizione di Malcolm, giovane Maestro e guerriero, che combatte ogni giorno con un potere forte e tenebroso che vuole farlo suo ed ha già , in passato, distrutto molte vite, particolarmente quelle dei suoi genitori.
Adoro Claire, un personaggio che emerge gradualmente dalla sapiente penna della Joyce in tutta la sua forza d’animo, determinazione e doti innate di cui, inizialmente, ignora l’esistenza. Commovente e magistralmente descritta la loro prima notte insieme, da amanti, innamorati perdutamente l’uno dell’altra. Il fare l’amore, le rivelazioni sussurrate e condivise nella mente, la passione che non è più solo carnale ma una carezza all’anima.
Malcolm, un vero e possente Highlander che ha catturato il mio cuore e che nel corso della storia, combatte i suoi demoni interiori, i ricordi dolorosi, il timore di non resistere alla tentazione e convertirsi suo malgrado, al male. Il desiderio di possedere Claire ma più di tutto di proteggerla, mettendola sempre al primo posto nei suoi pensieri anche quando deve prendere decisioni cruciali in merito alla lotta con le tenebre o la salvaguardia del manoscritto e della pagina perduta. Ho ammirato il suo autocontrollo o meglio, il suo opporsi alla mera passione così come all’inevitabile coinvolgimento emotivo per una donna, unica e speciale per lui, che gli farà battere il cuore come nessuno mai.
Una storia d’amore � di qualità � come la definisco io, una di quelle che di tanto in tanto, si ha piacere di rileggere o che semplicemente tornano alla mente. Senza lesinare in quanto a passione e descrizioni piuttosto dettagliate dei numerosi amplessi e momenti di intimità tra i due protagonisti, l’autrice riesce a coinvolgere e catturare il lettore e concede di subodorare, tra le righe, il finale gloriosamente soddisfacente.
Tra i personaggi che più ho amato e che spero di conoscere nei prossimi libri della serie, senza dubbio c’� Aidan di cui sono certa vi innamorerete anche se non posso dirvi altro di lui per non rischiare di lasciarmi scappare qualche dettaglio che vi rovinerebbe la sorpresa. Stesso discorso per il gran Maestro Ironheart, che mi è piaciuto subito e, nel corso della lettura, dopo alcune rivelazioni, ancora di più!
Una serie che non può mancare tra i vostri titoli se amate questo genere.
La Min - per RFS
“La loro bellezza è incantevole. Il loro potere senza limiti. Per secoli la solitudine ha dato loro la caccia, ma all’improvviso un raggio di luce illumina le tenebre della loro esistenza con la promessa di un amore destinato a durare per l’eternità .�
Da oggi vi parlerò di una serie paranormal romance di Brenda Joyce che è stata pubblicata tra il 2007 e il 2009 e si compone di 5 titoli, autoconclusivi ma intrecciati tra loro dove, via via, incontreremo e conosceremo più nello specifico le storie dei personaggi che compaiono in questo primo libro.
Caratteristica comune a tutti i libri sono i viaggi nel tempo. Un tempo passato in cui aitanti e possenti guerrieri delle Highlands, solo a scriverlo mi vengono i bollori, assolutamente sexy nei loro modi bruschi e autoritari così come altrettanto prestanti e focosi, sempre pronti a proteggere l’innocenza, combattono contro le tenebre. Il male, si contrappone a questi guerrieri che sono anche Maestri di un culto antichissimo che dona loro poteri speciali, tra i quali ovviamente, quello di spostarsi nel tempo e nei secoli. E poi ci sono loro, le donne, la parte più intrigante della storia. Sono donne moderne, autonome e indipendenti che si ritrovano nella Scozia del 1400 catapultate in un mondo molto lontano da ciò che conoscono, ma anche affascinante con i suoi guerrieri e i pericoli e i Maestri con la loro carica di testosterone che gridano passione da ogni poro. Il contorno indispensabile per una perfetta storia d’amore. Non mancano una serie di scene spassosissime legate proprio all’incontro/scontro iniziale tra personaggi che appartengono ad epoche diverse e lontane e alle inevitabili incomprensioni, tutto abilmente mescolato per regalarci emozioni e avventura.
Mi sembrava doveroso iniziare con una cornice che illustrasse l’intera serie ma oggi vi parlo del primo libro: DARK SEDUCTION.
Premetto che pur essendo adesso una grande appassionata di romanzi time travel, quando ho letto la prima volta questo libro ero assolutamente ignara del loro fascino. Accadde in estate, presi un libro a caso dalla libreria di prestiti disponibile in spiaggia, trovai questo e lo lessi innamorandomi all’istante della storia e dei suoi personaggi. A vacanza conclusa, pur essendomi ripromessa di appuntarmi il titolo e autore, me ne dimenticai e così rimase un ricordo, una traccia che mi condusse poi ai libri della Gabaldon o della Moning. Immaginate la sorpresa quando ho scelto questa serie da recensire e leggendo ho ritrovato con grande e piacevole sorpresa il padrino e la madrina di tutti le mie future letture sul genere. Ecco, cercherò di essere obiettiva ma sappiate che questa è una di quelle serie che non è possibile non aver letto.
L’autrice scrive con un stile diretto, scorrevole e semplice lasciando ai personaggi e alla storia tutto lo spazio che meritano. Piacevoli le descrizioni dei luoghi in cui sono ambientate le diverse vicende anche se non precisissime da un punto di vista storico e di ricerca accurata sui modi e usanze. Molto accattivanti i diversi personaggi che presenta, inclusi quelli di minor rilievo, con descrizioni accurate e senza dilungarsi eccessivamente. Ultima osservazione, in questo primo libro riusciamo ad avvicinare in prima istanza alcuni dei protagonisti dei romanzi futuri, aspetto che ho molto apprezzato perché mi piace leggere le serie in cui, alla fine, mettendo insieme tutti i libri, si ha la sensazione di sapere molto più di quanto viene narrato in un determinato libro o capitolo. Come se l’autrice ci regalasse la possibilità di una visione a 360° di un tutto che si sta definendo e il lettore fosse un osservatore anch’esso capace di muoversi nel tempo e nei ricordi come i protagonisti.
In questo libro Conosciamo Claire nella sua vita quotidiana a New York, nella sua libreria. In procinto di partire per la Scozia per una vacanza che sogna da tempo in un luogo da cui si sente inspiegabilmente attratta. Claire vive la sua vita indipendente e autonoma ma sempre ammantata dal ricordo della morte violenta di sua madre, riportata sui giornali come Pleasure crime. Può sembrare ripetitivo il nominare così spesso questo termine e collegarlo ad una paura quasi ancestrale della protagonista ma in realtà tutto si spiega più avanti, proseguendo nella lettura.
Quando Claire e Malcolm si incontrano la prima volta, la situazione è molto critica e decisamente fuori dagli schemi. La povera Claire si ritrova improvvisamente coinvolta in un duello tra due immensi uomini abbigliati in una maniera non convenzionale ed armati di spade, poco prima una donna ha fatto irruzione nel suo negozio super protetto da allarmi e serrature senza la benché minima fatica e tutti e tre cercano la pagina di un libro che credono essere occultato da lei. Poco dopo in un trambusto di incomprensioni e necessità di resistere ad una attrazione fisica impellente e inspiegabile, Claire e Malcolm si ritrovano su un prato, ammaccati e doloranti, soprattutto lei. Ma non è già più a New York, Malcolm l’ha portata con sé in Scozia, vicino ai territori di cui lui è il Signore, in un castello antico e protetto e� nel 1400!! Da qui in poi inizia la loro storia. Tra screzi, incomprensioni, differenze culturali, una cosa sembra prevalere tra tutte: la potente attrazione che unisce i due protagonisti. La loro è una storia d’amore emozionante, intensa, travolgente, che sboccia e fiorisce mentre i loro corpi bramano la passione che li spinge l’uno tra le braccia dell’altra nonostante le inquietudini e le incertezze, nonostante il divario culturale ed a prescindere dalle ferme prese di posizione di Malcolm, giovane Maestro e guerriero, che combatte ogni giorno con un potere forte e tenebroso che vuole farlo suo ed ha già , in passato, distrutto molte vite, particolarmente quelle dei suoi genitori.
Adoro Claire, un personaggio che emerge gradualmente dalla sapiente penna della Joyce in tutta la sua forza d’animo, determinazione e doti innate di cui, inizialmente, ignora l’esistenza. Commovente e magistralmente descritta la loro prima notte insieme, da amanti, innamorati perdutamente l’uno dell’altra. Il fare l’amore, le rivelazioni sussurrate e condivise nella mente, la passione che non è più solo carnale ma una carezza all’anima.
Malcolm, un vero e possente Highlander che ha catturato il mio cuore e che nel corso della storia, combatte i suoi demoni interiori, i ricordi dolorosi, il timore di non resistere alla tentazione e convertirsi suo malgrado, al male. Il desiderio di possedere Claire ma più di tutto di proteggerla, mettendola sempre al primo posto nei suoi pensieri anche quando deve prendere decisioni cruciali in merito alla lotta con le tenebre o la salvaguardia del manoscritto e della pagina perduta. Ho ammirato il suo autocontrollo o meglio, il suo opporsi alla mera passione così come all’inevitabile coinvolgimento emotivo per una donna, unica e speciale per lui, che gli farà battere il cuore come nessuno mai.
Una storia d’amore � di qualità � come la definisco io, una di quelle che di tanto in tanto, si ha piacere di rileggere o che semplicemente tornano alla mente. Senza lesinare in quanto a passione e descrizioni piuttosto dettagliate dei numerosi amplessi e momenti di intimità tra i due protagonisti, l’autrice riesce a coinvolgere e catturare il lettore e concede di subodorare, tra le righe, il finale gloriosamente soddisfacente.
Tra i personaggi che più ho amato e che spero di conoscere nei prossimi libri della serie, senza dubbio c’� Aidan di cui sono certa vi innamorerete anche se non posso dirvi altro di lui per non rischiare di lasciarmi scappare qualche dettaglio che vi rovinerebbe la sorpresa. Stesso discorso per il gran Maestro Ironheart, che mi è piaciuto subito e, nel corso della lettura, dopo alcune rivelazioni, ancora di più!
Una serie che non può mancare tra i vostri titoli se amate questo genere.
La Min - per RFS
July 29, 2011
Dark Seduction � FOUR STARS
A big shout out to my girl, Laurie who recommended this to me. I knew it had to be good when she tells me that its HAWT! I love historical romance, I love highlanders and who doesn’t love a bit of Time Travel every now and again � this was bound to be good. Also this was my first Brenda Joyce book, so yes, I was a virgin. There was so much good in this book, I loved our hero, I liked our Heroine but I mainly wanted to jump the hero’s half brother, tie him to a bed and make him pleasure me into oblivion. Of course however there was the silly, the LOL moments and the parts that had me shaking my head.
Malcolm is a Highland Warrior who has taken an oath to protect innocents. He has the cutest little Scottish accent you will ever hear, made with tingle all over. It took me all of 5 seconds to fall in love with this big brute.
Claire is a modern day woman who has the figure of which I can only relate to Barbie. She owns a bookstore and is a schooler. After her mother was killed in a passion crime years ago, Claire has become almost obsessed with fear that it will happen to her. So when Clair meets Malcolm, her and his world gets thrown thru a loop forever.
What I loved about the book:
The concept of time travel can become a little mind boggling sometimes. Thankfully Joyce has done it in this book pretty smoothly. There was no confusion about what century they were in at any given moment.
I liked the idea of the Masters and demons and powers, it gave the book an edge.
What I thought was silly:
Our heroine, Claire for some reason when placed in a dire situation thought it was appropriate to dress in a denim mini skirt and a thong. That is wrong on so many levels. The only reason a chic would wear that get-up is for easy access.
I liked their powers but I didn’t like Malcolm ALWAYS reading Claire mind. And could Masters read each other’s minds?
Clair kept changing her mind about Malcolm. Once minute she was all guns ho for him the next she was BUGGER OFF!
Would I recommend this book?
Yep. The hero and heroine were ultimately freaking hot for one another. The step brother is a scene stealer, there are twists and turns ever where and it was a really fun read.
A big shout out to my girl, Laurie who recommended this to me. I knew it had to be good when she tells me that its HAWT! I love historical romance, I love highlanders and who doesn’t love a bit of Time Travel every now and again � this was bound to be good. Also this was my first Brenda Joyce book, so yes, I was a virgin. There was so much good in this book, I loved our hero, I liked our Heroine but I mainly wanted to jump the hero’s half brother, tie him to a bed and make him pleasure me into oblivion. Of course however there was the silly, the LOL moments and the parts that had me shaking my head.
Malcolm is a Highland Warrior who has taken an oath to protect innocents. He has the cutest little Scottish accent you will ever hear, made with tingle all over. It took me all of 5 seconds to fall in love with this big brute.
Claire is a modern day woman who has the figure of which I can only relate to Barbie. She owns a bookstore and is a schooler. After her mother was killed in a passion crime years ago, Claire has become almost obsessed with fear that it will happen to her. So when Clair meets Malcolm, her and his world gets thrown thru a loop forever.
What I loved about the book:
The concept of time travel can become a little mind boggling sometimes. Thankfully Joyce has done it in this book pretty smoothly. There was no confusion about what century they were in at any given moment.
I liked the idea of the Masters and demons and powers, it gave the book an edge.
What I thought was silly:
Our heroine, Claire for some reason when placed in a dire situation thought it was appropriate to dress in a denim mini skirt and a thong. That is wrong on so many levels. The only reason a chic would wear that get-up is for easy access.
I liked their powers but I didn’t like Malcolm ALWAYS reading Claire mind. And could Masters read each other’s minds?
Clair kept changing her mind about Malcolm. Once minute she was all guns ho for him the next she was BUGGER OFF!
Would I recommend this book?
Yep. The hero and heroine were ultimately freaking hot for one another. The step brother is a scene stealer, there are twists and turns ever where and it was a really fun read.
November 21, 2016
En un principio la historia me llama la atención y comienza bien con ambos protagonistas, primero esta Claire que se muestra fuerte y determinada en las situaciones nada normales que se le presentan, y por otro lado, Malcolm, un hombre grande, que sudaba masculinidad y es atractivo (?), para mi fue un buen inicio al conocer a ambos protagonistas y la historia que cada uno tiene, sobre todo Malcolm el cual me llamo la atención por lo que puede hacer con sus poderes. Todo era interesante hasta el "malo" de la historia que también se presenta llamando la atención junto con su séquito, como escribà antes, fue una historia interesante (y hablo en pasado) sobre lo que son ellos y lo que les rodea.
Cuando avanzo más en la historia el buen agrado que tenÃa hacia los protagonistas se esfuma y comienzan a desesperarme, incluso luego a odiarlos por sus acciones, sobre todo Claire que deja aún lado la dignidad y orgullo para volverse en una tonta que no mide las consecuencias de sus actos, ok, hubieron escenas que comprendà y entendà que las hiciera pues hasta yo habrÃa reaccionado como loca suicida (?) bueno, no fue asà pero entendà ciertos aspectos que provocaban a Claire hasta al punto de que no aguantaba, pero una cosa es defenderte y otra es tirar por la borda su fuerza para volverse patética frente a Malcolm y casi una rogona, yo odie eso. Y Malcolm... mi querido y gran ingenuo Malcolm, igual que Claire no quedo nada de lo que nos mostró en un principio, pues nos da a conocer una gran capacidad de inmadurez entre más avanzaba el libro, aunque bueno, viendo lo de esta forma hacen una buena pareja al ser tontos e in maduros en partes del libro.
Los personajes secundarios fueren muy rescatables e interesantes al igual que el "malo" de la historia, estos personajes hicieron salvable el libro porque ni el romance ni las escenas para adultos (?) me pareció bueno, fueron normales y no me cautivaron para nada, y cuando llego a los últimos capÃtulos... se me hizo demasiado rápida pues esperaba más acción por que al menos ese tipo de escenas no fueron aburridas, y al llegar al final... después de todo lo que leà ya no me causo gran impresión.
Cuando avanzo más en la historia el buen agrado que tenÃa hacia los protagonistas se esfuma y comienzan a desesperarme, incluso luego a odiarlos por sus acciones, sobre todo Claire que deja aún lado la dignidad y orgullo para volverse en una tonta que no mide las consecuencias de sus actos, ok, hubieron escenas que comprendà y entendà que las hiciera pues hasta yo habrÃa reaccionado como loca suicida (?) bueno, no fue asà pero entendà ciertos aspectos que provocaban a Claire hasta al punto de que no aguantaba, pero una cosa es defenderte y otra es tirar por la borda su fuerza para volverse patética frente a Malcolm y casi una rogona, yo odie eso. Y Malcolm... mi querido y gran ingenuo Malcolm, igual que Claire no quedo nada de lo que nos mostró en un principio, pues nos da a conocer una gran capacidad de inmadurez entre más avanzaba el libro, aunque bueno, viendo lo de esta forma hacen una buena pareja al ser tontos e in maduros en partes del libro.
Los personajes secundarios fueren muy rescatables e interesantes al igual que el "malo" de la historia, estos personajes hicieron salvable el libro porque ni el romance ni las escenas para adultos (?) me pareció bueno, fueron normales y no me cautivaron para nada, y cuando llego a los últimos capÃtulos... se me hizo demasiado rápida pues esperaba más acción por que al menos ese tipo de escenas no fueron aburridas, y al llegar al final... después de todo lo que leà ya no me causo gran impresión.
September 11, 2010
After having read Moning’s Highlanders I was craving for some Highlanders who could entice me the way they had�.and I’ll be looking no further. Brenda Joyce has provided them with the Masters of Time-series.
This was Charmed meets Highlander in a sizzling paranormal debut of historical romance author Brenda Joyce.
I haven’t read any of Joyce’s historicals but if they are only half as good as this paranormal debut, they are definitely worth a try.
Dark Seduction was a brilliant mix of suspense, magic and sensuality. A combination of time-travel, medieval and paranormal with a great plot and a terrific beginning of a very promising series.
Joyce gave us a strong and special heroin, a scrumptious, fierce hero and some fine secondary characters, mainly other Masters who in the future will have their own books (I can’t wait!!).
The story was easy to read and fast-paced. A bit chaotic chronologically in the beginning but that feeling disappeared as soon as you get into the wonderful story of Malcolm and Clair.
Malcolm refuses to fall in love with Clair because as a Master anything can and will be used against you by evil. And Clair refuses to fall in with Malcolm because she knows she must eventually return to her own time. But of course nor evil neither time can stop true and genuine love.
But not only hero and heroin entice you, Royce, Aidan, MacNeill, Ironheart and even the evil of evilest Moray are powerfull secondary characters who give the book just that little bit extra to make it great.
This was Charmed meets Highlander in a sizzling paranormal debut of historical romance author Brenda Joyce.
I haven’t read any of Joyce’s historicals but if they are only half as good as this paranormal debut, they are definitely worth a try.
Dark Seduction was a brilliant mix of suspense, magic and sensuality. A combination of time-travel, medieval and paranormal with a great plot and a terrific beginning of a very promising series.
Joyce gave us a strong and special heroin, a scrumptious, fierce hero and some fine secondary characters, mainly other Masters who in the future will have their own books (I can’t wait!!).
The story was easy to read and fast-paced. A bit chaotic chronologically in the beginning but that feeling disappeared as soon as you get into the wonderful story of Malcolm and Clair.
Malcolm refuses to fall in love with Clair because as a Master anything can and will be used against you by evil. And Clair refuses to fall in with Malcolm because she knows she must eventually return to her own time. But of course nor evil neither time can stop true and genuine love.
But not only hero and heroin entice you, Royce, Aidan, MacNeill, Ironheart and even the evil of evilest Moray are powerfull secondary characters who give the book just that little bit extra to make it great.
March 25, 2013
Claire Camden, has made an effort to make a life for herself in the city as a bookseller, but she is greatly afraid of the dark. Ever since her mother's death, she has been careful, but nothing could prepare her for meeting a sexy master, who oozes sex appeal, one who takes her back through time, Malcolm is determined to make sure Claire, an Innocent and whom he has vowed to protect.Malcolm even though young and tormented is ever more determined than ever. But Malcolm has a enemy who is one of the most evil beings, and could threaten to tear apart everything that Claire and Malcolm have built. Dark Seduction is the first installment in the Masters of Time series. I have recently discovered Brenda Joyce, and I just have loved reading this series so far. Its definitely my type of romance, especially since it mixes the historical aspects with time travel, and paranormal aspects in it. This is the second book that I have read in the series, and I just loved reading Malcolm and Claires story. Malcolm has very recently become a Master but is very tormented, and Claire needs protection for one of their most dangerous enemies is trying to capture her. So it a very thrilling tale, with romantic aspects, and a danger theme to the story that keeps you on edge with every page. Definitely a read you don't want to miss out on !!!! SUCH A GREAT ONE!!! I LOVED IT!!!
My Favorite Quote
"Aye" he said, lifting her to her feet and pulling her against his big, hard body " This be what matters, ye an' me. I love ye Claire, and I want ye t'be my wife"
My Favorite Quote
"Aye" he said, lifting her to her feet and pulling her against his big, hard body " This be what matters, ye an' me. I love ye Claire, and I want ye t'be my wife"
March 7, 2011
This is the first book I have read by Brenda Joyce. This is He-man meets Braveheart, meets the Time Traveler. I love time travel books. This one was pretty steamy right away. I would have enjoyed it better if there was a little more character development and a lot less steam.
This book starts with Malcolm who is a Master of Time. The Masters are guardians who protect innocents from evil, sometimes traveling through time to do so. Malcolm is from Scotland and is the grandson of a Gaelic goddess. He is from the 1400's and he time travels to modern day New York to see Claire who owns a rare old book shop. A page from a magic book of healing has been stolen and it must be recovered. Malcolm sweeps in and protects Claire from demons hunting for Claire and the page they believe she has. To protect Claire, Malcolm takes her to with him to his home and time.
This book had a good story, but the author needs to work on developing the characters before they start getting so steamy. I look forward to reading the next Master of Time book. This is the first book out of five.
This book starts with Malcolm who is a Master of Time. The Masters are guardians who protect innocents from evil, sometimes traveling through time to do so. Malcolm is from Scotland and is the grandson of a Gaelic goddess. He is from the 1400's and he time travels to modern day New York to see Claire who owns a rare old book shop. A page from a magic book of healing has been stolen and it must be recovered. Malcolm sweeps in and protects Claire from demons hunting for Claire and the page they believe she has. To protect Claire, Malcolm takes her to with him to his home and time.
This book had a good story, but the author needs to work on developing the characters before they start getting so steamy. I look forward to reading the next Master of Time book. This is the first book out of five.
May 16, 2011
I chose this book from the library shelf based on the theory that since it was beat up, a lot of people had read it and thus it must have something going for it. I probably should have put it back when I discovered it involved time travel, because time travel plots often make my head hurt. Sometimes they can be delightful, though, so I took the chance that this one would be. It was not, at least for me. This a romance novel, not science fiction, so the time travel aspect is not really explained or explored; it's just a device to allow the contemporary heroine to hook up with the 15th century hero. I am willing to overlook a lot if I find a featured couple compelling, but these two didn't do it for me, so the annoying parts seemed even more annoying. Most of the book is set in Scotland, so there's repetitive dialect a plenty, except when the characters are speaking French (which is written in dialect-free English). The premise that sex can kill women (but not men, apparently) was not hot, and some of the language used in the sex scenes was just not sexy to me.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 233 reviews
Can't find what you're looking for?
Get help and learn more about the design.