This novel was a easy to read and one you didn't want to put down. The authors as usual has strong characters who are well described and live through a plot of twists and turns. I did not realize until I finished the novel that it was part of a series and the 2nd book. Now u have to go back and see who the characters sre in the first as there are no real hints as to who it will be. ( )

I liked this one better than the first of this series, but felt it wasn't up to the standard I think Deveraux capable. ( )

Days of Gold
by Jude Deveraux
#2 Edilean
Audio narrated by the AMAZING Davina Porter
4*

Although this is the second in the Edilean series, this takes us back to the beginning (1766) with Scottish laird, Angus McTern, and Edilean Talbot, niece of the Englishman who stole away the Scots' land. Even though Angus is really a laird in name only as the property no longer belongs to them, his people still consider him their laird and he still oversees the business of the land because the Englishman doesn't want to do it himself. Angus also is allowed to wear his traditional kilt at the benevolence of the new owner, even though that had been outlawed by England at this point in Scottish history.

Edilean is a sweetheart of a girl whose beauty transfixes everyone who meets her, including Angus McTern. Although a misunderstanding at their first meeting causes the laird some embarrassment and makes him fodder for lighthearted teasing and sets the tone for a cantankerous relationship, he starts to see that Edilean's situation may not be as simple or happy as she and her uncle are presenting to the clan.

She attempts to run away and escape to the man she loves, and unaware of the full situation and trying to help, Angus quickly finds himself in a spot where he must run away with her, partly to provide protection for her and partly to keep himself out of the hangman's noose. Their adventure brings them to the New World, where they must make their way under the guise of a married couple. After Angus is forced to abandon her to once again escape trouble, she finds her own way and proves that she is not the incompetent fluff of a woman that he seems to think she is.

This was a great example of one of Jude Deveraux' historical novels and has all the elements needed for a grand epic story which includes adventure, friendship and love stemming from a forced partnership, humor, frustration and angst. It also shows how difficult life could be for women, constantly having to navigate the unfairness shown them simply for being female. They really were forced into situations of needing men for protection--physical, financial, and to protect their reputations. Although both main characters are likable and you feel they are meant to be together, the hero can be extremely frustrating by going incommunicado on several occasions for long periods of time, causing greater misunderstanding and heartache than was necessary. ( )

A romance from the 1700s that starts in Scotland and spans across the sea to the States. There is great tension and chemistry between Angus and Edilean. The story is fast paced, action packed, and fun. I love the beautiful locations the story takes place in. This was a really great read that I do plan to read again. ( )

*sighs* I think I am stuck reading old Jude Deveraux books. I could not even find an ounce of interest in the characters. I don't even remember the storyline. ( )