Susana and the Scot

In this hot and steamy but overblown second Untamed Highlander historical (after Hannah and the Highlander), set in 1813 Scotland, Susana, a beautiful and willful young widow, is reunited with her first love. Susana’s father, an Englishman, has called in reinforcements to bolster Reay Parish’s holdings in light of recent attacks. When the new forces arrive, Susana, commander of her father’s defenses, recognizes their captain, Andrew, at once—he is the Scot who stole her heart six years prior—but he doesn’t recognize her. Insulted, Susana does her best to oust Andrew and his men, sometimes quite humorously, despite her continued attraction to him and his obvious interest in her. Susana’s young daughter is wise, clever, courageous, and strong beyond her years, and her intervention adds fun and a bit of unbelievable drama. As dangerous foes try to weaken Reay, Susana and Andrew must decide, personally and strategically, what matters most. York relies too much on using “For some reason” to explain difficult scenarios, a ruse that detracts from the story’s flow, and she overdoes the language of the seduction scenes, but loads of passionate trysts are certain to entertain and satisfy readers. (Jan.)