REVIEW: Scot of my Dreams by Janice Maynard

In Scot of my Dreams (Kilted Heroes #1) by Janice Maynard, Willow Ryman and her two best friends are in Scotland on the adventure of a lifetime, maybe hoping to find the man of their dreams like the heroine in their favorite TV show. While out exploring the countryside, Willow discovers she may have found that man in Bryce McBrae, a handsome man that comes to her aid after an incident with his dog. However, he ends up rescuing her in more ways than one when the hostel she‘s staying at decides to close down for renovations and he invites her to stay at his castle. Unable to decline such an offer, Willow soon finds herself falling for the gorgeous Scot. Can someone so against romance finally have found her perfect match?

”Give me the bottom line.”
He nodded curtly. “I still want you to come and stay at the castle…for Abigail. But you and I can only be friends.”
I shrugged, offering the performance of a lifetime. “Of course. I understand entirely. It’s not like either of us believes in love at first sight. We’ve shared a bit of animal attraction, that’s all. I’m sure that any residual hormones and pheromones will fade away when I see you on a daily basis.”

Although I haven’t read the first book of this series, this story encompassing the opposites attract trope can easily be read as a stand-alone. I really liked how Ms. Maynard started this story by introducing me to the three women and why they’ve decided to take such a trip. However, it was the moment where Willow met Bryce that this book grabbed my undivided attention and didn’t let go until I was at the end.

As for the dialogue, there were some light-hearted moments between Bryce and Willow that made me smile. They’re so opposite in the way that he’s a blueblood and she’s blue collar, and – I believe – that is what Bryce finds so attractive about her. She’s so different to the women he’s normally used to. Yet, the dialogue was also intense to due to the main characters back stories, what happens with Willow’s hairdressing salon while she’s away and Bryce’s uncle going awol. Certainly, Bryce is a lifesaver for all those that need him including Willow, his uncle and his sister.

I really liked both the main characters, as well as the secondary ones. Bryce’s sister, Abigail, has been through so much and Willow is good for her. Their growing friendship really helps Bryce’s sister start to heal and open up to people again since the loss she suffered. Willow is strong and brave. Not only for going off solo once she arrives in Scotland with her friends, but because she’s willing to give Bryce a chance. She’s also very independent, and with a back story like hers, I could understand why. No way would she rely on a man to get her out of trouble unless absolutely necessary.

”You look very handsome, Bryce.” I was proud of my calm, not-at-all giddy compliment.
“And you, on the other hand, are stunning. All of the single chaps and some of the married ones are speculating about my American import. Red is definitely your color.”
“Are you comparing me to wine?”
He shrugged. “It would be an apt description. One sip and you make me forget my responsibilities. Half a glass and I can’t remember my name.”

While Bryce, he’s confident, charming and cares deeply for his family. He wants to see his sister move on, to be happy again, and if that involves getting Willow to help than he’ll do it. Even if it means that she’s living under the same roof as him, and he has to resist her because of his responsibilities as head of the family. However, nothing is ever that easy and I liked that Willow gave him a hard time when he realized what a mistake he made in denying them the chance to get to know each other better. However, in saying that, they’re waiting that little bit extra time certainly increased the sexual tension between them. So much so that when they finally consummated their relationship, the sex scenes were hot and illustrated the strong chemistry these two had from the moment they met.

Overall, I really liked this story and the way it ended wrapped the story up nicely. The way Bryce teases the heroine about why she agreed to marry him, and the reaction Bryce has to their talk about their future made me laugh. I would recommend Scot of my Dreams by Janice Maynard, if you enjoy the opposites attract trope, or books encompassing Scottish heroes.

Book Info:

Publication: May 10th, 2016 | Kensington Books | Kilted Heroes #2

Willow Ryman is as crazy about Scotland as her friends, but she’s on a tighter budget. So during their visit, she opts to stay at a shabby local hostel instead of a cozy B&B. When the owners abruptly decide to shut down for renovations, Willow is left out in the cold—until while exploring the countryside, Willow meets a handsome, friendly, kilt-clad fisherman. The Scotsman is everything she’s dreamed about. But he’s a blueblood, and she’s blue collar…

Bryce McBrae’s lineage as Laird McBrae has always been more of a burden than a blessing. Rarely does it spark such stimulating conversation as he enjoys with the pretty, refreshing American. Wanting more and unwilling to let Willow slip away, he invites her to stay at his castle. But as the two fall hard and fast for each other, they’ll have to decide whether this is just a vacation fling—or a sexy Cinderella story come true…