Review: Awaken The Highland Warrior

Author: Anita Clenney 

Release Date: May 1, 2011

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

ISBN: #978-1402251238

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Format(s): Paperback

     Bree Kirkland is a born adventurer specializing in collecting Civil War artifacts who has just inherited her family estate. The house currently has an archaeological dig going on in the yard, and borders a cemetery and crypt, but the history and unsolved mysteries it holds make it perfect for Bree. When she uncovers a 177-year-old Highland warrior in the crypt, she does what any strong-willed woman would do: she takes him in and feeds him, of course. That he’s been frozen in time for 150 of those years, and is gorgeous (and in a kilt!) is just a bonus.

     Faelan Connor was single-handedly trying to defeat the demon he was assigned to lock away in a “time vault” when he was betrayed, ambushed, and locked in the vault himself. Now he’s resuming his quest with a woman he can’t resist, but doesn’t fully trust. He’s got quite a learning curve to contend with, along with the grief of losing his family so suddenly, and Bree’s self-sufficiency completely baffles him. Faelan, for all he’s going through, is an entertaining hero. He second-guesses himself throughout the novel, especially where Bree is concerned, and some of his realizations while he’s coming to terms with the modern world are just funny.

     I think with any sort of anachronistic tale, there are certain factors that remain constant, regardless of the author or purpose. More specifically, the familiar “fish-out-of-water” theme, complete with “where am I?” bewilderment, necessary adjustments to a new environment, as well as how the hero comes to terms with the inherent loss of his or her present to the past. What distinguishes one of these novels from another, at least in part, comes down to what the author does with these constants. In Awaken the Highland Warrior, Clenney has done a good job of keeping her story afloat amid the necessary formula.

     Bree is an interesting character. She’s willful and capable, and is not only able to stand up to Faelan and his notions of a woman’s place, but rescues him more than once; a fact which embarrasses Faelan as much as he respects her for it. He is shocked by Bree’s modern sensibilities, yet he can’t resist indulging in the sexual aspects of that awareness fairly often. Right before he curses himself over the situation. Faelan’s take on short skirts and facial piercings made for a solid laugh. No wonder Faelan is confused.

     The main conflict got off to a slow start, but did become more interesting as the story progressed. The bigger battle, however, was definitely overshadowed by the conflict perpetually brewing between Bree and Faelan. In this case, that makes for good storytelling. Watching the two lovers fight their way to a happy ending was my favorite part of the novel. Although the main villain is a little cartoonish, and there are a few obvious conveniences, there’s still plenty of intrigue to keep the pages turning. Clenney has a good sense of humor, as well, and comes through with some really good one-liners. Even Faelan’s chauvinistic predisposition is more entertaining than offensive. All in all, Awaken the Highland Warrior was a rewarding story, and I’m very much looking forward to the next novel in the series.