Seduction of a Highland Lass by Maya Banks Review: McCabe Brothers Book 2 Highland Romance

Book Summary

A warrior is caught between family loyalty and forbidden love in book two of bestselling author Maya Banks's sensual new trilogy featuring three indomitable Highlanders. Fiercely loyal to his elder brother, Alaric McCabe leads his clan in the fight for their birthright. Now he is prepared to wed for duty, as well. But on his way to claim the hand of Rionna McDonald, daughter of a neighboring chieftain, he is ambushed and left for dead. Miraculously, his life is saved by the soft touch of a Highland angel, a courageous beauty who will put to the test his fealty to his clan, his honor, and his deepest desires. An outcast from her own clan, Keeley McDonald was betrayed by those she loved and trusted. When the wounded warrior falls from his horse, she is drawn to his strong, lean body. The wicked glint in his green eyes ignites a passion that will follow them back to Alaric's keep, where their forbidden love draws them deeper into the pleasures of the flesh. But as conspiracy and danger circle closer, Alaric must make an impossible choice: Will he betray his blood ties for the woman he loves?

My Review

Where to start. I know many will think I have gone crazy, but I expected more and it didn't deliver. Yes, I know I LOVE Highlander books and the first book in this trilogy was AWESOME. This is Alaric's story. He is planned to marry Rionna McDonald and on the way to her clan, he was ambushed and left for dead. He finds his way to Keeley, the outcast McDonald. She is a healer and tends him back to health. His brothers find him and take them back to the McCabe clan. Their love for one another is strong, but how will it prevail as he is duty bound to another? Just a side note: grab some kleenex on this, I found myself shedding a tear or two...

What I Liked

Despite my disappointment, Maya Banks delivers on the emotional intensity that Highland romance readers crave. The forbidden love aspect between Alaric and Keeley creates genuine tension, and the author doesn't shy away from the heartbreak that comes with duty versus desire. Keeley's character development stands out as she transforms from an outcast healer into a woman fighting for her place in the world. The healing scenes between her and Alaric are tender and well-written.

Series Context & Comparison

After the incredible first book in the McCabe Brothers series, this second installment feels like it's struggling to maintain the same momentum. While In Bed with a Highlander (Book 1) had me completely invested, Seduction of a Highland Lass didn't quite capture that same magic. Fans of the series will still want to read Alaric's story to understand the family dynamics, but it may not be the standout book of the trilogy.

Content Notes

Heat Level: Steamy Highland romance with explicit love scenes
Trigger Warnings: Betrayal, family conflict, emotional distress
Recommended For: Fans of Maya Banks, Highland romance enthusiasts, readers who enjoy forbidden love tropes

Final Recommendation

While Seduction of a Highland Lass didn't meet my high expectations after the first book, it's still a solid Highland romance that will satisfy fans of the genre. If you're invested in the McCabe Brothers series, you'll want to read Alaric's story. Just don't expect it to be your favorite in the trilogy. Perfect for: A weekend read when you want emotional Highland drama
Skip if: You prefer lighter romance without heavy emotional conflict

My Rating:


3 out of 5 Hearts - Good but not great

More McCabe Brothers Reviews- McCabe Trilogy

Reading Order:
1. In Bed with a Highlander (Ewan's story)
2. Seduction of a Highland Lass (Alaric's story) - This review
3. Never Seduce a Scot (Caelen's story)

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