Nichol is a man that gets things done, he has a way with settling issues but when his services were requested he had no idea what he was getting into. Maura has had to rely on the kindness of her father's friend after his death, she was moved in to strange house with the Garbett family which should have been great, she would be a playmate to the family's daughter and it would have been the perfect situation if it were not that Maura out shined the Garbett's daughter. That was how the she became a mixed up in a bad situation she found herself being kissed by the wrong gentleman. Maura has had to accept that she was just a charity case but finding herself riding out with a stranger after being thrown out with little more than the clothes on her back and a promise to marry a stranger really shook her up. Great read, with wonderful characters and humor, this one is not to be missed. Maura is independent but also has a warm heart, Nichol is knows the same loneliness Maura has experienced, now he's finding it hard to hand of the entice creature to some other man.

Ms. London does it again!! Seduced by the Scot was a wonderful story. It was full of adventure, family heartbreak which it all lead to finding true love. Maura and Nichol lived sad lonely lives before meeting each other. They grew up feeling alone and unloved by those that were raising them. Nichol's job brought him to Maura and along the way in accomplishing his task they realized that they were destined for each other.
Seduced by by the Scot had no boring parts. It was fast paced and kept this reader very entertained. I always enjoy this author's stories and her writing style. I look forwards to the next one.


ARC was provided by the author through NetGalley for an honest review.

All I really have to say is WOW! I love Julia London, and am once again blown away by her writing. I also love the title, because when reading the book you never really know for sure if it is Maura Darby the dark haired, smart mouthed, beauty who is doing the seducing. Or if it is Nichol Bain, handsome problem fixer for the aristocracy.
Maura has had a hard life after losing her family at a young age, and becoming the ward of a family that does not appreciate or care for her, as her beauty draws attention away from their daughter. In comes Nichol, who has been hired to remove her from their home and find a different situation for her that will make it so they need never see her again.
Along the way love starts to grow, but how could it not with the characters Julia has created, I love Maura's personality and spirit, and Nichol is just dreamy. This book is definitely a buy, and I cant wait for more!

One of my daugher’s teachers always said that in writing the first sentence has to capture the reader and make them want to read more. The first sentence of “Seduced by a Scot” did just that. “Calum Garbett was not allowed to know happiness.” Why you may ask. The second sentence reveals – “No matter how close he came to it, his wife and daughter would swoop in at the last moment to destroy any chance of it.” At this point you think you might feel sorry for Mr. Garbett but that doesn’t last long as he is a weak man who does not stand up for right. Seduced by a Scot is a story about Maura Darby, a ward to Mr. Garbett whom the Garbett family treats worse than a pet. Maura is too good looking for her own good since the Garbett daughter “leaned a little to the homely side of things”. Jealously from both the mother and daughter along with a fickle suitor create an impossible situation for Maura (our heroine) that sets off a series of events that will keep the reader entertained and cheering for Maura and Nichol Bain, our hero. It is a delightful read and one you don’t want to miss.

I've enjoyed books by Ms. London, but this one wasn't one of my favorites. Nichol Bain is someone you call when you need a "fix" to a situation. He's the ultimate fixer and has built a career for himself. Treated horribly by his father, Nichol has kept himself aloof most of his life because of his scarred childhood. When he's called to fix another situation, he meets Miss Maura Darby, another lost soul treated horribly by those who are supposed to care for her. These two are drawn to each other, but can their damaged souls finally be soothed by each other?

While I liked the hero, Maura's character didn't start to resonate with me until about 3/4 of the way through the book. When she does something unexpected, I found myself finally rooting for her. As the details of Nichol's childhood are slowly teased out, it becomes apparent why he keeps himself apart from everyone. The ending was predictable and I was hoping for something more in the epilogue.

I normally love London's stories, but this one was just kinda meh to me. I really had a hard time finishing it.

Nichol is sent to "deal" with Maura. Her family thinks that she tried to seduce her cousin's intended and sent her away. Nichol plans on taking Maura to one of his friends and hopes that they might suit one another and marry. He didn't count on falling for her himself. What will become of these two?

I'm really hoping that the next book that London puts out is more on par with her other books.

Book: “Seduced by a Scot”
By Julia London

Series: Highland Grooms, Book#6

Release Date: October 30, 2018

Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
Tartan Book Reviews
Purple Tulip Book Reviews
Celtic Barb’s Tartan Book Review Blog

Heat Rating:🔥

OverRating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Stirling, Scotland 1758

Maura Darby had been an orphan these 12 years, treated horribly by her guardian, Calum Garbett’s Family. This only got worse, the more beautiful child Maura became, to a gorgeous breathtaking woman! His daughter Sorcha also seemed to became more unattractive as the years went on. It didn’t matter what his wife did to try to make their daughters appearance more appealing and desirable. Nothing could compare to Maura’s beauty plus her pleasant disposition compared to Sorcha’s sour one!

Calum had been Maura’s father's best friend. He was not prepared that his wife and daughter would resent his ward. As the moment his wife set her eyes on the beautiful child-it was instant, obsessive, hatred! Plus Calum was being paid a large sum of money for her care. So greedy Callum was not prepared to let his ward go on a permanent basis.

Mrs. Garbett took Maura’s beautiful clothes, belongings, pets and gave them all to their daughter Sorcha. She made sure she got the smallest room in the house and was treated like a servant. Plus anything new she would receive from others would be cruelly taken away and given to their daughter. Maura thought she was penniless, unknown of her father’s wealth, and Calum’s agreement of payment for her care.

Sorcha Garbett is extremely spoiled which matches her unattractive looks. Yet Maura always stayed in the shadows allowing Sorcha to shine, His daughter finally gets an offer of marriage-for her wealth obviously. This fiancé, Adam Cadell, is caught kissing Maura but lies and claims is was her wonton wickedness and wiles. Adam forced himself on her and did not accept her rejection, yet blamed her when caught. Now a scandal was brewing in front of his daughters finances family and friend, the Duke of Montrose.

As the men were working on the final kinks in the marriage contract. The greedy guardian agrees to send his ward Maura away, but only until it all blows over. The Duke of Montrose offered the name of a man, Nichol Bain who is his counselor. This man who can make problems disappear on a more permanent basis.

As Nichol’s solution is easy for the young fiancé’s, until he meets the enchanting, Miss Maura Darby. She was another set of problems completely. Now Nichols heart starts to become involved, something that never happens. Yes for Nichol Bain one who never gets attached to another or stays in one place for long!This is very unexpected, however due to their unusual, yet similar circumstances.

Both Maura and Nichol have undeserving and similar
abusive history. It is from adults who should be caring for them, not hurting and destroying them. A reason both mistrust others especially men in Maura’s case for the obvious reasons.

A cherished heirloom from a beloved family member was taken from Nichol similar to Maura’s royal heirloom. Nichol was discarded and separated from his brother at an early age like a piece of garbage. He was made to also feel worthless just like Maura. Of course Nichol physically desires Maura too, which is a major problem for him. As Maura has shared her abuse from men desiring her as a bed partner which she refused. Something she really resents and Nichol is trying to hold his physical desires back, yet he is only a mere man after all!

The choices and decisions and life’s direction made were decided early in life for Maura and Nichol. Due to secrets, lies, cruelty, resentment enviousness and spite. However thr attraction between Maura and Nichol is immediate and only grows. Though both suppress from acting on these feelings. In addition, Maura has no trust in the actions of men, from miserable past experiences. Nichol has no trust in people in general, choosing not to stay in one place for a long period of time. Yet they both feel the other is the most beautiful swoon worthy vision they have ever seen.

Will this couple with similar tragic backgrounds stay together or grow apart? Can they ever find a life together with a happily ever after? Plus possibly find a place they can actually call a safe, happy, home? Yet will all their suspicions, mistrust and complications split them apart? I suggest you read this sensational book and find out! Some parts reminded me of an original Cinderella type of story, which only made me love it more!

Julia London pens another masterpiece, in her sixth powerful, Highland Grooms series. I have read them all! A book you can read as a stand alone book or in series order. I suggest to read them all, as each one is extraordinary and exhilarating reads in my opinion . Again this author writes another quick paced, page turning, riveting adventure, with with vengeance, treachery, betrayal, lies, jealousy, cruelty, and spite. In addition, a beautiful love story with a swoon worthy hero and beautiful heroine. The story of two, heartbroken souls, and how they mend, nurture and warm each other’s ice cold hearts . In addition, a breathtaking setting, intricate characters and a delightful dialogue. Plus the phenomenal plotting with so many twists and turns will make you gasp for air! Not knowing what could actually transpire next! Totally brilliant!

A book readers won’t be able to put down and definitely don't want to miss! I positively and unequivocally highly recommend “Seduced by a Scot”Iby Julia London.

“Highland Grooms” series
by Julia London

#1 Wild Wicked Scot
#2 Sinful Scottish Laird
#3 Hard-Hearted Highlander
#4 Devil in Tartan
#5 Tempting the Laird
#6 Seduced by a Scot-TBR 10/30/2018


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I received a complimentary ARC copy from Harlequin publishers through netgalley. I voluntarily agreed to read, review and blog an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts, ideas and opinions are my own.

3.5*/3.75*

I’ve received this eARC at no cost to the author.

Seduced by a Scot is the sixth book in the Highland Grooms series. After such a good fifth book, I thought it might be difficult to come back to that excellence. But Maura and Nichol came pretty close to it. Maybe because Maura (after leaving her house, of course) reminded me of Catriona? I don’t know. What I do know is that I really enjoyed this book.

Both Maura and Nichol have had a hard time in life and, in this book, both of them find themselves without a place to call home. Even if it might seem that the attraction isn’t immediate, we can feel the sparks growing.

We have a strong perspective of how women were seen in the past (I mean, some of us today are still experiencing this - sadly), and how most males thought it was always their fault that they caught someone’s eye. Because, of course, even if she pushes them aside, it’s still her fault because she’s pretty? Thankfully (and as expected), the hero treats her like a real person, even if he tries to lead her to a life she doesn’t want. He believes it’s the best for all involved, but when things between them start to change it’s hard for Maura to keep to the plan, and Nichol showed a huuuuge resolution almost to the end. Sometimes, his prerogative in forcing her to this “good life” that he envisioned for her as a bit too much. It felt like he was doing the same that had been done –no, forced on to her for her whole life. And didn’t really like that.

Also, for a very intelligent and resourceful man, Nichol wasn’t the brightest in the bunch when it came to understanding why the Baron MacBain acted the way he did. I knew right from the start, he literally tells him to his face. I can understand that a child might not put the pieces together, but adult Nichol (and Ivan – his brother - to be honest) should have known the truth a loooooong time ago. He even says so himself!

Anyway, those are the only reasons why this book has a lower review score than the previous one (which was 4.5*).

Maura was so determined and I’m pretty sure she would have made it on her own (which would have been interesting to see). The story contains a bit of a Cinderella and Rapunzel vibe to it, which some readers might appreciate.

In the end, it was a sexy book, with determined characters that overcame their struggles and past emotions, even if sometimes behaved unlike themselves.

This is an enchanting/emotional story which will pull you in at the start.

Maura is mistreated by the family who took her in when her father died. She is accosted by a gentleman who is the suitor of the young lady of the house and is punished for his actions.

Until Nichol comes to the rescue as he fixes “situations”. I loved how two broken people throw together, can find love despite the obstacles that seem to always be in the way. This is a believable, fantastic, heartwarming romance.

Nichol Bain hires himself out to fix situations for people. His latest job is to smooth over a betrothal between two young people from well-to-do families. Easy enough, right? Nichol has everything under control until he meets the one of the families' ward, Maura Darby. She makes it clear from their first meeting, things will not be easy.

Nichol saves Maura from a bad situation. He has devised a plan for her with her family, and all Maura has to do is agree meet and marry a stranger. Maura will agree at a price... Nichol must help her recover her most treasure possession which her so-called family stripped from her before casting her out. Find out what happens when an innocent maid and a hardened Scot enter into an agreement that fairly oozes trouble.

Although not a favorite of mine, SEDUCED BY A SCOT, does have it's moments. Nichol is strong, arrogant and deep. Maura is beautiful and resilient. The tension builds from their very first meeting. I have to give Nichol credit because he fights it pretty hard. Maura, on the other hand, is less afraid to take a chance. The back and forth was a little much. Nichol held out a little too long in my opinion, and because of that, nearly loses everything. I give SEDUCED BY A SCOT a 3.5 out of 5 stars.

No one writes a Highland novel like Julia London!
Nichol Bain is a problem solver. He goes from place to place solving the issues of the wealthy. He’s brokered peace in duels, solved business disputes. Despite his heritage, he’s made his own way. It’s not easy; no home, no family that cares, an emptiness always with him.
Maura Darby was orphaned young and sent to live with her Father’s friend and his family. What she hoped would be a loving home with a new sister, turned into her worst nightmare. Maura was forced into the shadows so as not to overshadow her dowdy “sister”. She was always polite and demure but it wasn’t enough. Now accused of seducing her “sister’s” fiancé, Maura feels betrayed and all alone.
Nichol is summoned to help soothe a lover’s quarrel so a business deal can move forward. This was going to be easy money. Nichol has no idea what awaits him in the person of Maura Darby. Can the two kindred souls overcome their distrust to find the love they both deserve? Filled with adventure and a cast of unforgettable characters, Ms. London gives her fans another great read in the Mackenzie’s of Balhaire saga.
Don’t miss this gem!

I requested this book because I love Julia London, but unfortunately this was just an average read for me. I had a hard time connecting with our couple, and also felt that there were zero sympathetic female characters for the majority of the book.

The story of Maura, who has lost her family and relies upon another to raise her. She truly deserves more than what she receives while growing up in that household. Jealousy and vindictive behavior of others make her have to rely on Mr. Bain.

Bain, a cast off from his father since a young age, is wonderful. He has been on his own for many years and yet takes Maura on a journey to find security so she will have a home.

So many secrets by others, the jealousy and pure hatred that people can have, that can shape and change lives from a very early age. It is amazing when two people can overcome these things and manage to find love despite the obstacles that seem to always be in the way.

I always look forward to reading Julia London, she always tells a wonderful story. Thank you to Netgalley and HQN for this ARC and this opinion is of my own.

Seduced by a Scot was an absolute swoon worthy read! Maura and Nichol captured my heart from the beginning. Maura is so mistreated your heart just breaks for her. She is accosted by a gentleman suitor that is actually for the other young lady of the house, and then punished for his actions without another thought until that is Nichol comes into the picture. I adored his character and morals. He was such a night in shining armor for Maura. It was a fantastic heartwarming romance, that I would definitely recommend. I loved that author took the time to do her research into the saying and lingo before writing this book. It made it that much more believable. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review after reading this arc.

I requested this book 100% based on the fact that Julia London wrote it - and she did not disappoint.

I loved Maura right away, we see her just as she's breaking. She's taken as much as she can take and she absolutely can't take any more. I loved that we saw Nichol understand that and let her talk and talk and talk and talk while they road, understanding her on a level that even she didn't know.

Bain - I adored him too! He didn't know what he needed either. It took Maura not just loving him, but putting up with him not understanding that love to get to a point where he could see himself as deserving of her.

Together, they're unstoppable. If Ms. London wanted to write a long-running series about the two of them running around Europe being "fixers" I would buy every single one!

3.5 stars

This was an enjoyable story with likeable characters. There were a number of formatting issues but hopefully those will be taken care of before publication.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.