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Highland Magic #4
Released
She's become a Banshee, screaming for vengeance...
The last thing Katriona remembers about her life is her violent death. Now, in order to rest, she must avenge her family, which means eliminating the last of the corrupt MacKay Lairds. But her Banshee scream doesn't kill him, and the more she tries, the harder it becomes to resist the wicked temptation he poses.
He's cursed for the crimes of another...
None of the many sins staining Laird Rory MacKay's soul warrant the wailing Banshee in his bedroom. With a clan divided, an impending marriage, and whispers of a dark curse threatening the livelihood of his people, Rory doesn't have the time - or the heart - to face the specter of the one woman he's spent the last year trying to forget.
The last thing Katriona remembers about her life is her violent death. Now, in order to rest, she must avenge her family, which means eliminating the last of the corrupt MacKay Lairds. But her Banshee scream doesn't kill him, and the more she tries, the harder it becomes to resist the wicked temptation he poses.
He's cursed for the crimes of another...
None of the many sins staining Laird Rory MacKay's soul warrant the wailing Banshee in his bedroom. With a clan divided, an impending marriage, and whispers of a dark curse threatening the livelihood of his people, Rory doesn't have the time - or the heart - to face the specter of the one woman he's spent the last year trying to forget.
84 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 25, 2013
136 people are currently reading
1114 people want to read
About the author
Kerrigan Byrne
67 books5,003 followersIf you're anything like me, the best night is one spent with a brawny highlander, a mysterious werewolf, a conflicted vampire, or a hot-headed Irishman. My stories span the spectrum of romantic fiction from historical, to paranormal, to romantic suspense. But I can always promise my readers one thing: memorable and sexy Celtic heroes who are guaranteed to heat your blood before they steal your heart. Lose yourself in the enchanted Celtic Isles, you never know who, or what, will find you...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
January 28, 2016
I'm not as into this series of novellas as I was
The MacLauchlans series
but I do like the addition of these banshee sisters and (possibly) the introduction to the Druids from
The Moray Druids series
, at least I hope it is because I'm totally interested in the druid we meet toward the end of this story.
April 10, 2014
A few months ago, I found a free book by an author I had never read before, the cover captured my interest and I thought what the hell, I’ll give it a try. Unwanted by Kerrigan Byrne blew my sock off, I so fell in love with it, that I had to go and download the first two other books in this series. Read them both the same day! I love short books that I can devour in one day!!
Released is the 4th book in this wonderful series, it can be read as a stand-alone, but I would highly recommend reading the other 3 books in this series for the sheer pleasure.
Katriona is hell bend on getting her vengeance, at her death she makes a deal with the Fae to see that her revenge is fulfilled, she becomes a Banshee. One scream is all it will take to destroy Rory MacKay, Laird of the MacKay clan.
The story opens with Katriona appearing in Rory’s bed chamber, while fury driving her to complete the task, only to discover that even though she can cause him get pain, she can’t kill him.
Rory never told Katriona how he felt about her before she die, so imagine his shocked to see the ghostly appearances of the women he’s been mourning standing in his chambers. A Banshee, ready to kill him, for his families sins. Even as he accepts his fate and submits to her, he still struggle with his desire for Katriona.
These two characters were magnificent, both strong and independent. Watch Katriona and Rory struggle with the hand that fate had dealt them was heartbreaking. They not only had to deal with their feeling for each other, her hate and his love, they had the foul legacy left behind from Rory’s family. Even if Katriona could release her hate, she still had to fill her obligation to the Fae and if it wasn’t completed within a year, her soul belonged to them forever.
The whole time I was read I kept saying to myself there better be a HEA at the end of this book, because I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how that could even be possible….. BRAVO Ms. Kerrigan, you pulled it off! Just when I was losing hope of my romantic lust being filled, you pulled a rabbit out of your hat!
Kerrigan Byne you have one faithful follower in this reader.
Released is the 4th book in this wonderful series, it can be read as a stand-alone, but I would highly recommend reading the other 3 books in this series for the sheer pleasure.
Katriona is hell bend on getting her vengeance, at her death she makes a deal with the Fae to see that her revenge is fulfilled, she becomes a Banshee. One scream is all it will take to destroy Rory MacKay, Laird of the MacKay clan.
The story opens with Katriona appearing in Rory’s bed chamber, while fury driving her to complete the task, only to discover that even though she can cause him get pain, she can’t kill him.
Rory never told Katriona how he felt about her before she die, so imagine his shocked to see the ghostly appearances of the women he’s been mourning standing in his chambers. A Banshee, ready to kill him, for his families sins. Even as he accepts his fate and submits to her, he still struggle with his desire for Katriona.
These two characters were magnificent, both strong and independent. Watch Katriona and Rory struggle with the hand that fate had dealt them was heartbreaking. They not only had to deal with their feeling for each other, her hate and his love, they had the foul legacy left behind from Rory’s family. Even if Katriona could release her hate, she still had to fill her obligation to the Fae and if it wasn’t completed within a year, her soul belonged to them forever.
The whole time I was read I kept saying to myself there better be a HEA at the end of this book, because I couldn’t for the life of me figure out how that could even be possible….. BRAVO Ms. Kerrigan, you pulled it off! Just when I was losing hope of my romantic lust being filled, you pulled a rabbit out of your hat!
Kerrigan Byne you have one faithful follower in this reader.
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March 22, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
I’ve been really anticipating the new Highland Historical installment from Kerrigan Byrne ever since I read the first 3 books, which were awesome in one word. I loved them all, but sadly, Released didn’t really hold my attentions with the same intensity. Don’t get me wrong, it was a good read and Kerrigan’s writing is as wonderful as ever. Personally I think she’s way better than many authors I’ve read but storywise I wasn’t really moved by this one.
Released is Rory Mackay’s story. I didn’t know he’d have a story of his own, mainly because we had no clue to that in Unwanted. We were left to imagine who might be getting the next book. Rory’s father and evil twin brother were the villains of the previous installments. Other than that and some mentions of the MacLauchlan brothers, Released isn’t really connected to the rest of the books.
Rory was born to a cruel father, and grew up with a deviant older twin. We don’t see a lot of background here, but bits from Rory’s musing. Both their father and Rory’s twin, Angus were plain horrible. Since they’ve met their cruel ends in the other books, Rory is now laird of the Mackays. But his sad luck, his clan is suffering from the want of food, money and any other kind of securities a clan should have. Rory is worried because he is rather a different breed than his sire or brother. With all his heart, he wants his clan to prosper, which had him thinking of marrying a lowlander lord’s only daughter. Even though he has no love for the lowlanders, money is something this lord can provide him with. A deal of sort has already been struck between them earlier.
Then there was the recent banshee problem in the village. But Rory didn’t know that he’s the target of one of them. Our heroine, Katriona is... um, dead, and now a banshee. A creature of Fey, thanks to their mother. And with that, starts my confusion galore! lol The story back and forth, flashback and at present confused the hell out of me. All I could gather was that Katriona has two other sisters, youngest Kamdyn and middle sister, Kylah. They and their mother were the washerwomen of the clan. Kylah’s beauty came to Angus’s notice and he wanted to have her. And he either would have what he wants or destroy it. Since his marriage proposal was turned down, Angus turned violent. He raped Kylah in front of their mother. Katriona and Kamdyn were out at that time but when they return on that fateful day, together they were burned alive. A very torturous and painful death no doubt. Their back story made me sad. Katriona’s mother somehow remained alive, and struck a deal with Cliodnah to let her daughters be banshees so that they can exact revenge by taking 3 lives, each for one; Rory’s father, Angus and Rory himself.
Katriona’s target is Rory. She knows that it’d be easy. One banshee scream and he’ll be hearing his death warrant. But easier said than done when, in Rory’s chamber where she was waiting, Katriona fails. Rory doesn’t die, though he hears her alright! In fact, Katriona finds out that she can actually touch him. Ummm..... ok. Back to their mother, when Cliodnah comes to see them, she explains either Rory is a deity or he is An Dìoladh or the returned (from the dead). But no matter, Katriona will have her revenge! Next time it is revealed, as Katriona asks Rory about it, that he indeed is An Dìoladh. Something happened when he was young... Now this poses a big problem. Unless they can claim souls, the sisters are in trouble with Cliodnah. All three are worried that there are no souls to be claimed now, not the ones they targeted anyway.
In between, when Rory sees Katriona again, he’s overcome with emotions. Then we learn that he has been secretly in love with her ever since he met her, but it never really went anywhere. I’m not sure why. It’s been a while before they were killed, so how is it that Rory never took any chance to tell her that he loved her? Katriona was also attracted to Rory, but she was never considered the beauty of the family, and so, she never thought a gorgeous specimen like Rory would ever be interested in her. Then again, the way his father and brother were, it was better for Katriona to keep distance from them.
For all the good it did.
At present, Rory’s intended arrives soon enough with her father. She’s a lady and very beautiful. Rory is attracted to her as a man should be. But in his heart, he wants Katriona still, not knowing what to do. They even somehow managed to have sex earlier (which was sort of odd for me to read, banshee and human sex... :-s) and managed to talk about their feelings. It was way too fast and I could question a lot if things in this ‘relationship’. Then, some weird, and sometimes harmful, things happen and Rory accuses Katriona and her banshee sisters for everything. He even brings in a scary looking druid to get rid of them but the druid refuses (seeing Kylah hovering nearby... I could just feel the vibes between them! Ooh lala.)
On her part, Katriona was falling for Rory again, especially knowing he’s the one who’s been taking care of their mother by sending her food, medication etc. But I couldn’t see just how, someone, who had this deadly vengeance in her heart (or whatever was there in the place of her heart), could flip so easily, in the span of a few pages. She’s not supposed to feel anything and yet, we soon find both expressing their ILUs before the day Rory was to be married and having sex all night. Sorry to say but I kind of lost my interest by then.
There were lots of confusing moments (maybe just me, don’t know). Even though Rory was sweet, I really couldn’t connect with Katriona, she being dead and all. Things were happening very fast for me to believe in them. There wasn’t any sexy berserker action like the earlier installments (and I wasn’t expecting any), even then, the lack of real action was palpable throughout the book.
But what really bugged me was the ultimate solution. A big NO NO. I mean how can Katriona and Rory not be bothered by it????? HOW??? I can’t even imagine! 3.25 stars. I just hope Kylah and the Druid’s book is sexier and there are no such weirdo solutions for them. Also looking forward to Kamdyn’s book. Hmm, who would she be paired with? Would it be Rory’s good friend and right-hand man, Lorne? Guess I just have to wait to find out!
I’ve been really anticipating the new Highland Historical installment from Kerrigan Byrne ever since I read the first 3 books, which were awesome in one word. I loved them all, but sadly, Released didn’t really hold my attentions with the same intensity. Don’t get me wrong, it was a good read and Kerrigan’s writing is as wonderful as ever. Personally I think she’s way better than many authors I’ve read but storywise I wasn’t really moved by this one.
Released is Rory Mackay’s story. I didn’t know he’d have a story of his own, mainly because we had no clue to that in Unwanted. We were left to imagine who might be getting the next book. Rory’s father and evil twin brother were the villains of the previous installments. Other than that and some mentions of the MacLauchlan brothers, Released isn’t really connected to the rest of the books.
Rory was born to a cruel father, and grew up with a deviant older twin. We don’t see a lot of background here, but bits from Rory’s musing. Both their father and Rory’s twin, Angus were plain horrible. Since they’ve met their cruel ends in the other books, Rory is now laird of the Mackays. But his sad luck, his clan is suffering from the want of food, money and any other kind of securities a clan should have. Rory is worried because he is rather a different breed than his sire or brother. With all his heart, he wants his clan to prosper, which had him thinking of marrying a lowlander lord’s only daughter. Even though he has no love for the lowlanders, money is something this lord can provide him with. A deal of sort has already been struck between them earlier.
Then there was the recent banshee problem in the village. But Rory didn’t know that he’s the target of one of them. Our heroine, Katriona is... um, dead, and now a banshee. A creature of Fey, thanks to their mother. And with that, starts my confusion galore! lol The story back and forth, flashback and at present confused the hell out of me. All I could gather was that Katriona has two other sisters, youngest Kamdyn and middle sister, Kylah. They and their mother were the washerwomen of the clan. Kylah’s beauty came to Angus’s notice and he wanted to have her. And he either would have what he wants or destroy it. Since his marriage proposal was turned down, Angus turned violent. He raped Kylah in front of their mother. Katriona and Kamdyn were out at that time but when they return on that fateful day, together they were burned alive. A very torturous and painful death no doubt. Their back story made me sad. Katriona’s mother somehow remained alive, and struck a deal with Cliodnah to let her daughters be banshees so that they can exact revenge by taking 3 lives, each for one; Rory’s father, Angus and Rory himself.
Katriona’s target is Rory. She knows that it’d be easy. One banshee scream and he’ll be hearing his death warrant. But easier said than done when, in Rory’s chamber where she was waiting, Katriona fails. Rory doesn’t die, though he hears her alright! In fact, Katriona finds out that she can actually touch him. Ummm..... ok. Back to their mother, when Cliodnah comes to see them, she explains either Rory is a deity or he is An Dìoladh or the returned (from the dead). But no matter, Katriona will have her revenge! Next time it is revealed, as Katriona asks Rory about it, that he indeed is An Dìoladh. Something happened when he was young... Now this poses a big problem. Unless they can claim souls, the sisters are in trouble with Cliodnah. All three are worried that there are no souls to be claimed now, not the ones they targeted anyway.
In between, when Rory sees Katriona again, he’s overcome with emotions. Then we learn that he has been secretly in love with her ever since he met her, but it never really went anywhere. I’m not sure why. It’s been a while before they were killed, so how is it that Rory never took any chance to tell her that he loved her? Katriona was also attracted to Rory, but she was never considered the beauty of the family, and so, she never thought a gorgeous specimen like Rory would ever be interested in her. Then again, the way his father and brother were, it was better for Katriona to keep distance from them.
For all the good it did.
At present, Rory’s intended arrives soon enough with her father. She’s a lady and very beautiful. Rory is attracted to her as a man should be. But in his heart, he wants Katriona still, not knowing what to do. They even somehow managed to have sex earlier (which was sort of odd for me to read, banshee and human sex... :-s) and managed to talk about their feelings. It was way too fast and I could question a lot if things in this ‘relationship’. Then, some weird, and sometimes harmful, things happen and Rory accuses Katriona and her banshee sisters for everything. He even brings in a scary looking druid to get rid of them but the druid refuses (seeing Kylah hovering nearby... I could just feel the vibes between them! Ooh lala.)
On her part, Katriona was falling for Rory again, especially knowing he’s the one who’s been taking care of their mother by sending her food, medication etc. But I couldn’t see just how, someone, who had this deadly vengeance in her heart (or whatever was there in the place of her heart), could flip so easily, in the span of a few pages. She’s not supposed to feel anything and yet, we soon find both expressing their ILUs before the day Rory was to be married and having sex all night. Sorry to say but I kind of lost my interest by then.
There were lots of confusing moments (maybe just me, don’t know). Even though Rory was sweet, I really couldn’t connect with Katriona, she being dead and all. Things were happening very fast for me to believe in them. There wasn’t any sexy berserker action like the earlier installments (and I wasn’t expecting any), even then, the lack of real action was palpable throughout the book.
But what really bugged me was the ultimate solution. A big NO NO. I mean how can Katriona and Rory not be bothered by it????? HOW??? I can’t even imagine! 3.25 stars. I just hope Kylah and the Druid’s book is sexier and there are no such weirdo solutions for them. Also looking forward to Kamdyn’s book. Hmm, who would she be paired with? Would it be Rory’s good friend and right-hand man, Lorne? Guess I just have to wait to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 18, 2013
Much too short... While the others were short too, the story felt complete. Here the story was really, really too quickly done.
I din't feel so strongly the connection between hero and heroine.
Rory was a nice enough guy, but he was only sketched not enough structured... Kat was understandably very angry (who wouldn't be?!) and she was believable as a banshee. But the such a strong connection between the two of them was too quick.
Also the sex parts were strange... I supposed it was meant to be hot, but I found them just confusing... At the end there's mention of straps and whips implying that there was some kinky staff going on, but there was nothing kinky before... The only reason for that that I could find is that Rory enjoyed pain during sex the first time, but I understood that there couldn't be sex without pain when she was a banshee, so I just thought that their pull was so strong that they felt they must overcome it in order to love each other... I didn't connect this with kinky untill the end and then I just felt cheated...
I would have liked to know more about the pact her mother made with Cliodnah. What happens with her sisters now that their "targets" are dead?
Maybe this will be explained in the next books... I hope so...
I din't feel so strongly the connection between hero and heroine.
Rory was a nice enough guy, but he was only sketched not enough structured... Kat was understandably very angry (who wouldn't be?!) and she was believable as a banshee. But the such a strong connection between the two of them was too quick.
Also the sex parts were strange... I supposed it was meant to be hot, but I found them just confusing... At the end there's mention of straps and whips implying that there was some kinky staff going on, but there was nothing kinky before... The only reason for that that I could find is that Rory enjoyed pain during sex the first time, but I understood that there couldn't be sex without pain when she was a banshee, so I just thought that their pull was so strong that they felt they must overcome it in order to love each other... I didn't connect this with kinky untill the end and then I just felt cheated...
I would have liked to know more about the pact her mother made with Cliodnah. What happens with her sisters now that their "targets" are dead?
Maybe this will be explained in the next books... I hope so...
March 5, 2013
Oh my screaming banshees! Loved this book. It was different than a lot of what I've recently read, and so refreshing. There was this pain/pleasure thing going on, and a screaming banshee who needed to kill the hero. I couldn't see how Kerrigan was going to write herself out of this one and she did. It was great. Lots of lore and Highlanders. All my favorite things. Can't wait for the next book.
March 3, 2013
From the first couple of pages I was sucked into this story. I was supposed to be working on something else but had a few minutes to spare and I made the mistake of starting this book. Within the first couple of pages I was hooked! I was click, click, clicking away until I realized how in deep I was and that I had to get back on task, but man putting the book down to get my work done was so damn hard. I don’t think I ever flew through work so fast just so I could get back to the story. The story where is not long, it leaves a lasting impression. It is full of powerful emotion and characters you quickly come to care for. Kerrigan Byrne is a master a creating atmosphere and pulling you into her world. She describes things in such a way that it almost feels like you are there. The textures and atmosphere of the story are alive and vibrant.
We start the book with Katriona contemplating killing Laird Rory and as she recounts what had happened to her and her family, it is POWERFUL, definitely emotional. I found myself misting up a bit because of the pain that these young women endured. Equally powerful is Rory’s reaction to what happened and to Katriona herself, even if she is now a much feared Banshee. She never knew that Rory had deep seeded feelings for her for years and that he had been mourning her. Katriona is perplexed as to why she can’t take his life, a life for a life, isn’t that how it works? And as a Banshee, her magic is powerful. Perplexed Katriona spends more and more time haunting Rory, but the more time she spends with him the less she wants to kill him. But her time is running out, she has a year from her death to extract her revenge or she can never be released from her curse.
The push and pull between Katriona and Rory is intense. Rory knows what he wants but it’s out of his reach, he’s a year too late for the woman he always yearned for and his intended is on her way. Rory is noble man; he is the youngest son of a monster and younger brother to a man just as bad as his father. All of his life he has been paying for the sins of the father and brother. Now, they are gone and he is doing everything he can make up for their reign of terror. When Katriona shows up as a Banshee and tries to kill him, he figures it’s no less than he deserves. There is no way that you can’t fall a bit in love with Rory. He puts the needs of his clan ahead of his and his heart aches for everything that his father and brother had done. He knows there is no way he can make up for it all, but he does as much as he can even sacrificing himself and the one thing he had always wanted. Rory has an understated power about him; he commands but is not overt about it.
We start the book with Katriona contemplating killing Laird Rory and as she recounts what had happened to her and her family, it is POWERFUL, definitely emotional. I found myself misting up a bit because of the pain that these young women endured. Equally powerful is Rory’s reaction to what happened and to Katriona herself, even if she is now a much feared Banshee. She never knew that Rory had deep seeded feelings for her for years and that he had been mourning her. Katriona is perplexed as to why she can’t take his life, a life for a life, isn’t that how it works? And as a Banshee, her magic is powerful. Perplexed Katriona spends more and more time haunting Rory, but the more time she spends with him the less she wants to kill him. But her time is running out, she has a year from her death to extract her revenge or she can never be released from her curse.
The push and pull between Katriona and Rory is intense. Rory knows what he wants but it’s out of his reach, he’s a year too late for the woman he always yearned for and his intended is on her way. Rory is noble man; he is the youngest son of a monster and younger brother to a man just as bad as his father. All of his life he has been paying for the sins of the father and brother. Now, they are gone and he is doing everything he can make up for their reign of terror. When Katriona shows up as a Banshee and tries to kill him, he figures it’s no less than he deserves. There is no way that you can’t fall a bit in love with Rory. He puts the needs of his clan ahead of his and his heart aches for everything that his father and brother had done. He knows there is no way he can make up for it all, but he does as much as he can even sacrificing himself and the one thing he had always wanted. Rory has an understated power about him; he commands but is not overt about it.
March 9, 2013
Just to be contrary, I've read books 2 and 4 now in this series and, ooooooh!, do I like them! Braw Highland Lairds, Berserker rages, Banshees... this series has it all. This story tied in nicely with book 2 (Rory had hired Connor to kill his corrupt brother, Connor finds his destined mate... it was meant to be!) but can definitely be read as a stand-alone. Although, why you'd want to do that is a mystery to me. Did you see the part about braw highland lairds and Berserker rages? Yeah. Those things are kinda awesome when you're reading about them.
Admittedly, this book has no Berserkers. It does have a banshee or three, though. And a doomed love. And hot sexin' in the bath. The setup for the next book looks verrrrry promising (here's to hoping at least one of Katriona's banshee sisters finds some happiness) and the resolution to Kat's little problem was unexpected. To me, at least.
Fun, sexy, and a just dark enough to make me giddy. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Released was a free Kindle book I downloaded on 03/08/13 for the Why Buy the Cow? reading challenge.
Admittedly, this book has no Berserkers. It does have a banshee or three, though. And a doomed love. And hot sexin' in the bath. The setup for the next book looks verrrrry promising (here's to hoping at least one of Katriona's banshee sisters finds some happiness) and the resolution to Kat's little problem was unexpected. To me, at least.
Fun, sexy, and a just dark enough to make me giddy. *thumbs up*
-Kelly @ Reading the Paranormal
Released was a free Kindle book I downloaded on 03/08/13 for the Why Buy the Cow? reading challenge.
May 16, 2014
Released is the first of Kerrigan Byrne's novella series about the MacKay Banshees, three sisters who perished violently in a fire set by the former laird. Problem is, the former laird was our hero Rory MacKay's sick and twisted brother.
As new laird, Rory wants to reverse the damage done to his clan by his brother, and do his best for his people. All our heroine wants is revenge for her her family and herself.
I enjoyed this one, though not as much as I did the connected novella series about the MacLauchlan Berserkers. Katriona is a strong woman, and Rory is an honorable man, and Ms. Byrnes' prose is great as usual. But for some reason this one didn't quite have the "oomph" the MacLauchlans had.
I was rooting for the couple, and their attraction was palpable. However, the resolution sorta kinda rubbed me the wrong way.
Eh, even so it's a great read. It's usually the promise of learning the stories of other characters which make me want to continue a series, and this is no different. The introduction of an enigmatic character known as The Druid has me curious to see what Ms. Byrne has in store for him.
As new laird, Rory wants to reverse the damage done to his clan by his brother, and do his best for his people. All our heroine wants is revenge for her her family and herself.
I enjoyed this one, though not as much as I did the connected novella series about the MacLauchlan Berserkers. Katriona is a strong woman, and Rory is an honorable man, and Ms. Byrnes' prose is great as usual. But for some reason this one didn't quite have the "oomph" the MacLauchlans had.
I was rooting for the couple, and their attraction was palpable. However, the resolution sorta kinda rubbed me the wrong way.
Eh, even so it's a great read. It's usually the promise of learning the stories of other characters which make me want to continue a series, and this is no different. The introduction of an enigmatic character known as The Druid has me curious to see what Ms. Byrne has in store for him.
April 6, 2013
Released has all of the elements found in Kerrigan Byrne's stories that have made me a fan of hers. The characters are wonderfully developed and portrayed, especially the male characters. The hero of Released, Rory, is a tough Laird but has regret at the actions of his brother and of course love in this heart for Katriona. This portrayal of the hero is excellent as the reader will truly feel like he or she is becoming part of Rory's life.
While I do enjoy Ms. Byrne's writing, this particular story didn't resonate with me as much as the first three stories of the series, mainly because of the paranormal elements. I was.often wondering if Rory was falling for a human woman or a ghost? By the end of the story it all made sense...but getting there didn't feel like the wonderful journey like the first three were. Nonetheless, this story is well worth the time to read because of the wonderful characters as only Ms. Byrne can portray. Four and a half stars.
While I do enjoy Ms. Byrne's writing, this particular story didn't resonate with me as much as the first three stories of the series, mainly because of the paranormal elements. I was.often wondering if Rory was falling for a human woman or a ghost? By the end of the story it all made sense...but getting there didn't feel like the wonderful journey like the first three were. Nonetheless, this story is well worth the time to read because of the wonderful characters as only Ms. Byrne can portray. Four and a half stars.
March 10, 2013
WOW! Kerrigan continues her epic series and it continues to amaze me.
We get hot beserker warriors in the previous novella's and in this new novella we get beautiful badass Banshee's
Kerrigan continues to grab and keep your interest and attention with each new tale. They are all different and special. Her characters always stand out and stay with you. They are easy to connect and fall in love with.
There is always a perfect amount action, mystery, emotion, passion, lust and sizzling romance.
I love how Kerrigan brings us more into her magical world in this novella.
This novella has everything you could possibly want. It fulfills your needs. I wish it didn't end.. I can't wait for more.. It is very addicting.
We get hot beserker warriors in the previous novella's and in this new novella we get beautiful badass Banshee's
Kerrigan continues to grab and keep your interest and attention with each new tale. They are all different and special. Her characters always stand out and stay with you. They are easy to connect and fall in love with.
There is always a perfect amount action, mystery, emotion, passion, lust and sizzling romance.
I love how Kerrigan brings us more into her magical world in this novella.
This novella has everything you could possibly want. It fulfills your needs. I wish it didn't end.. I can't wait for more.. It is very addicting.
November 11, 2020
3.5 Stars
A fairly enjoyable and quick read, and steamy as well. I think I own the others in this series so I'll definitely have to check those out.
A fairly enjoyable and quick read, and steamy as well. I think I own the others in this series so I'll definitely have to check those out.
March 11, 2022
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a good job. I enjoyed the short story and the characters.
March 4, 2013
This has been another fantastic book from Kerrigan Byrne, my first Banshee story and I loved it. Very well written, fast paced, with some unexpected surprises along the way.
Rory MacKay, what a legacy he had inherited, from his wicked father and brother. How was he going to right the wrongs and see to the welbeing of his Clan. A Wedding was arranged, the brides dowry would help the MacKays get back on their feet. Kathryn Fraser was quite the beauty he should be pleased, but Rory's heart belonged to another.
Katriona and her sisters had died at the hands of Rory's vicious brother, only their mother had barely survived. With some spells cast and a bargain struck the sisters find themselves Banshees and they mean to have their vengence. Katriona's course was set to kill Rory, however its not as simple a task as she at first thought. Now you'll have read why and find out what happens to them....
Well deserved 5 stars....can't wait for the next sisters story
Rory MacKay, what a legacy he had inherited, from his wicked father and brother. How was he going to right the wrongs and see to the welbeing of his Clan. A Wedding was arranged, the brides dowry would help the MacKays get back on their feet. Kathryn Fraser was quite the beauty he should be pleased, but Rory's heart belonged to another.
Katriona and her sisters had died at the hands of Rory's vicious brother, only their mother had barely survived. With some spells cast and a bargain struck the sisters find themselves Banshees and they mean to have their vengence. Katriona's course was set to kill Rory, however its not as simple a task as she at first thought. Now you'll have read why and find out what happens to them....
Well deserved 5 stars....can't wait for the next sisters story
March 19, 2013
I was so giddy when a friend sent me the link for this one on Amazon. I wasn't even aware there was a 4th, I know, bad me. But boy oh boy was I as giddy as a 5 year old on Christmas morning! lol.
This was a short, interesting read just like all the others in this series. And just like the rest in the series I wanted more! The ending to this one was almost just too abrupt, but then it wasn't. Loved it.
This was a short, interesting read just like all the others in this series. And just like the rest in the series I wanted more! The ending to this one was almost just too abrupt, but then it wasn't. Loved it.
March 18, 2013
I am someone who absolutely hates paranormal novels, but I make two big exceptions--Kim Harrison and Kerrigan Byrne. This is the fourth Byrne Book I've read. The book synopsis didn't sound that great, and I did not like it quite as much as the Berserkers' stories (I have some trouble picturing a man in love with a woman whose voice makes people's ears bleed) it was much better than I thought it would be. Loved the ending.
February 28, 2013
What a wonderfully written book! I had no idea what to expect with a banshee......but I should have had more faith in Kerrigan Byrne! With the background the characters come to life in a fantastic romance with twists that will keep you on the edge of your seat! The ending was a very nice surprise and I am so excited for the next book to be released.
March 9, 2013
This series has all the elements in a romance that I love. I particularly enjoyed this tale of the banshee falling in love because it is something that you would not expect from the banshee. The whole tale of how the main character became a banshee to begin with, tied in well with the rest of the story. All around it was a great read! I can't wait for her next release!!
March 9, 2013
Is a great book to read
March 24, 2013
I enjoyed it, just wished it was longer and a little more detailed about Banshee's and how to break the curse.
April 8, 2020
4 Stars (jess michaels (fire), Jayne Castel, Ashe Barker, Cecelia Mecca)
....sexy good short story with a little ‘Scottish magic and historical tales’
I really did like the H/H’s for all the books; well paired as a couple in its writing.
writing style is easy to follow. Strong women, humour and overall enjoyable read.
romantic/sexual content is written well throughout the book (kissing, oral, love making) I’d rate it 4/5 steam and fire.
I love series around family members or a group of friends. I love the series even more when the author intertwines those characters throughout the book series (it’s a pet peeve when authors don’t do that because what’s the point of the series and introducing the characters if they are not going to interact throughout the series).
I’m not a huge fan of ‘internal dialogue’ in books. I can only take so much before I start skimming through pages and I found myself doing that with this book/series. But nothing that was too annoying for me.
would absolutely recommend the book and the series. you don’t have to read the series in order but i would suggest you do read them in order because the history of characters would bring better enjoyment of the stories in general.
....sexy good short story with a little ‘Scottish magic and historical tales’
I really did like the H/H’s for all the books; well paired as a couple in its writing.
writing style is easy to follow. Strong women, humour and overall enjoyable read.
romantic/sexual content is written well throughout the book (kissing, oral, love making) I’d rate it 4/5 steam and fire.
I love series around family members or a group of friends. I love the series even more when the author intertwines those characters throughout the book series (it’s a pet peeve when authors don’t do that because what’s the point of the series and introducing the characters if they are not going to interact throughout the series).
I’m not a huge fan of ‘internal dialogue’ in books. I can only take so much before I start skimming through pages and I found myself doing that with this book/series. But nothing that was too annoying for me.
would absolutely recommend the book and the series. you don’t have to read the series in order but i would suggest you do read them in order because the history of characters would bring better enjoyment of the stories in general.
February 19, 2020
Can you hear that? No, it is not the nerve shattering banshee ghost scream of the heroine. It is the sound of me banging my head repeatedly against the table in frustration. I liked Rory (the hero) in a previous book. He deserved better than this. Between the poor writing and the too bizarre to both trying to halfway explain the concept and my issues with it, I'm not going to waste my time or yours.
Here's to hoping others like it. I wish this author continued writing success. I tried reading this book as part of a 10 book boxed set. The first two were good...but each one after makes me wonder what went wrong here. The writing was off...plain and simple. Maybe I'll try again to read this book again. If I do and change my opinion, you'll be the first to know.
(Based on a Kindle Unlimited box set...Highland Magic. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
Here's to hoping others like it. I wish this author continued writing success. I tried reading this book as part of a 10 book boxed set. The first two were good...but each one after makes me wonder what went wrong here. The writing was off...plain and simple. Maybe I'll try again to read this book again. If I do and change my opinion, you'll be the first to know.
(Based on a Kindle Unlimited box set...Highland Magic. This is not a detailed ARC review.)
April 25, 2020
[04.2020] 1º read. 2.5 stars.
it was a bit much for me to buy. there was too much trauma for me to be convinced of how quickly in love she was, for a plot like that to work (for me) the book would have needed to be much longer. i could not buy the , it threw me off, and the ending made me uncomfortable .
Audiobook: 3 stars. it's the same narrator from the others in the series, but in a couple of sentences the voice changed so much it seemed as someone else had come in to voiced them.
it was a bit much for me to buy. there was too much trauma for me to be convinced of how quickly in love she was, for a plot like that to work (for me) the book would have needed to be much longer. i could not buy the , it threw me off, and the ending made me uncomfortable .
Audiobook: 3 stars. it's the same narrator from the others in the series, but in a couple of sentences the voice changed so much it seemed as someone else had come in to voiced them.
November 24, 2020
The first three books in this series was about berserkers. This series is about banshees.
Katriona was murdered by Angus, she and her sisters were burned alive. And their mother’s anger called the fae queen to her. She struck a deal to keep her daughters with her for a little longer, they would become banshees and take revenge on their murderers.
Katriona was tasked with taking Rory’s life. Rory, brother to Angus, was not their that night. But she’s sure he would have joined in. He wasn’t there to stop it. And despite the attraction that had always bloomed between the two of them, or maybe because of it Katriona will make him pay.
Katriona was murdered by Angus, she and her sisters were burned alive. And their mother’s anger called the fae queen to her. She struck a deal to keep her daughters with her for a little longer, they would become banshees and take revenge on their murderers.
Katriona was tasked with taking Rory’s life. Rory, brother to Angus, was not their that night. But she’s sure he would have joined in. He wasn’t there to stop it. And despite the attraction that had always bloomed between the two of them, or maybe because of it Katriona will make him pay.
July 17, 2019
Katriona and her sisters suffered a horrible death. consumed with grief their mother prays to Fae to make them Banshee's, so that they can get their revenge as well as stay with her.
Rory MacKay had a father and a brother that were cold and unspeakable, but now he has to pay for their sins too?!?!?
I loved the banshee's there was sadness in their story, but Kerrigan Byrne put a lot of light with the darkness in the story to make it a really great read.
Derek Perkins was narrator and did an excellent job as always.
Rory MacKay had a father and a brother that were cold and unspeakable, but now he has to pay for their sins too?!?!?
I loved the banshee's there was sadness in their story, but Kerrigan Byrne put a lot of light with the darkness in the story to make it a really great read.
Derek Perkins was narrator and did an excellent job as always.
February 15, 2020
We revisit Rory McKay from the second in the Highland Magic series, and he really was sweet and kind. I liked Katriona too, and it was touching that Rory loved her so and that she inspired him to kindness. I have been complaining about the excess of love scenes in thos series, but Rory and Katriona's story/background made it seem more believable and cohesive. Boo to Kathryn and Angus - I disliked them immensely, as the author wanted us to. I did feel a little jarred at the outcome of Kat at the end, but satisfying upon more thought. I can't wait to read the rest of this series.
July 1, 2020
I liked the story line, although getting used to the ins and outs of banshees took some time. One thing I didn't like was how short this book is. It's only 10 chapters so everything seems so rushed. Great for a quick read, but not much depth to it. Also, I absolutely hated the fact that the female main character who is supposed to be a banshee with powerful abilities is written essentially powerless throughout the whole book. Why is it the previous male characters (the berserkers) are insanely powerful, but the female (banshee) character is rendered a powerless "helpless" woman?????!!!!!
March 4, 2022
TW: mention of rape and death by fire.
I finally was able to finish the novella after a long while. The McKay family has a sad backstory. Rory and Kat’s relationship pulled at my heartstrings, but they ending was interesting. It was cleverly done.
Side note: IDK how I would feel about by man’s being so gung-ho about me having a new body. I would definitely feel some type of way about it, even with him saying he loved her for her soul
I finally was able to finish the novella after a long while. The McKay family has a sad backstory. Rory and Kat’s relationship pulled at my heartstrings, but they ending was interesting. It was cleverly done.
Side note: IDK how I would feel about by man’s being so gung-ho about me having a new body. I would definitely feel some type of way about it, even with him saying he loved her for her soul
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 26, 2024
Ugh. I love these stories! I just wish there was MORE! Theyre so short and sweet... I keep reading them for the entertainment value of the series as a whole, but they just don't stand out to me. I'm not going to think back on them fondly. It was just something that entertained me for a while. Maybe I'm being to harsh and I should find a different genre?
I love the characters, love the stories and the interesting plots, but theyre TOO SHORT. I need MORE. These could be GREAT books.
I love the characters, love the stories and the interesting plots, but theyre TOO SHORT. I need MORE. These could be GREAT books.
March 12, 2021
I'm a big fan of the whole highland magic series, they're all the perfect short reads. For novellas on the short side they really do manage both a plot AND great smut. And when you add an enemies-to-lovers where they go from in about a hundred pages there really is nothing more you can ask.
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