Jean, I am LIVING for this video! I'm not Scottish, but part of my PhD research focuses on 17th and early 18th century Scotland and that has led to zero tolerance for the kind of clichés you've mentioned throughout this video (the random Scots words, the English-Scottish dichotomy that completely ignores internal Scottish conflicts, equating 'highlander' with 'Scottish', ...). People keep recommending me Outlander and I just... CAN'T.
Canadian with Highlander ancestors ...and I have carried a huge aversion to this series. I tried to read Outlander but no. I feel a bit validated now. 🙂
Great video Jean! Reading When a Scot Ties a Knot now, it's just what I'm in the mood for although not my typical genre. I know you said you would never read Outlander but I would love to hear you talk about why. Love your videos ❤️
I would actually like to see you read 'Outlander', just so we could get a well informed Scottish opinion of it. It's become such a phenomenon, and people read it thinking it's teaching them something of Scottish history, and yet it's full of inaccuracies. (I suspect the fact that Diana Gabaldon was an academic is what has lead people to the false conclusion that she did her homework.) It's interesting to note that when he was PM, David Cameron had the premier of the TV series delayed in the UK, lest it influence the outcome of the Scottish independence reforendum.
@@ohoyohummered yes I think the same. I tried to read it but stopped because of that. I then tried watching it because I thought they wouldn't show it but they showed it and so long and now I can't watch it anymore.
She could’ve done her homework and still altered the history for the sake of fiction...it’s a time travel historical romance adventure after all. But I understand why some want more accuracy
@@Nothereforit174 I totally agree, rape is too much of a reality for women. That's why when I read my romance fantasy books I don't want to read about the horrid realities that women must endure. I am far from a book burner and not everyone wants to read total "fluff", but for me, give me rainbows and happily ever after.
The calm way you've said "I'm genuinely terrified of what I'm going to find there" 😂🤣 I don't read romance, I'm from Austria, so none of this affects me and one minute in I already know, this is going to be a hilarious way to start my Monday 🤣😂 thank you!!
I've been watching booktube for years and I've followed many channels but you're the only one who's videos I anticipate. You're the only one I watch these days. I find you to be a beautiful bundle of happiness and I'm inspired by how diverse your reading is. Hope you'll keep on making these awesome videos forever.
This was such a fun video! Thank you for working on this project. I am not in the habit of remembering historical facts, so I don’t necessarily question those elements in historical fiction, but hearing the commentary from someone who does is fascinating. I would love more videos like this, because this is an area where you really shine in your additional knowledge and I feel like it makes the videos really educational and interesting. Thank you again!
Loved this, the little bits of historical/cultural facts, the whole style of the video, the onscreen text adding to what you were saying (which is something I often enjoy in youtube videos when it's humorous/cheeky); even though I'm not much of a romance reader (not that I don't enjoy romance in books, I just don't tend to read books with "romance" as the main descriptor, iykwim), it's still enjoyable to watch you discuss it ^_^
I’m so interested to see if you like Julie Garwood! She has both regency and Scottish romances. The Secret is the start of her Scottish romances. Her books are older but still enjoyable
So glad you pronounce Menzies properly, I had a patient who told me I had pronounced their name wrong when I pronounced it like that - I was extra confused because it was in dundee where there is an area called Menzieshill that everyone pronounces it right! Also totally get the outlander thing, I can just about enjoy the tv show with minimal dry heaving but tried the first book and had to put it down because I was out loud shouting at it
As a scot I loved this video hahaha, some of the portrayals are painful and hilarious. On another topic, I'd be interested to know who tour favourite Scottish authors are 😊🦄
"Everyone there was ginger." I had completely forgotten about that stereotype! As for favourite sub-genres, I love Regency paranormal romance, a la the Gail Carriger books.
The highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne and the Highlander by her as well are really really good! Also the second book in the series after the madness of lord Ian Mackenzie is my fav, it’s called “lady isabellas scandalous marriage” and it’s about Ian’s brother Cameron! So good!
Lovely video Jean! My personal favorite sub-genre of romance is paranormal. Not so much vampires (except for a phase in my teens), but other magical creatures like shape shifters and witches and other people with magical abilities etc. A lot of the books I read have plots about crimes, and the books sometimes feels like a mix of romance, paranormal and thriller. They are a lot of fun!
We have a similar thing in Australia with "Outback" romances but, suprisingly to me, they all seem to actually be written by Australians. If I ever find one written by someone from overseas, I'd be so curious to check it out to see how accurate the vernacular and culture is. Also, I didn't even consider for a second that I would have a suggestion for a Highlander romance, but I just so happened to be scrolling back through my Read shelf on Goodreads today, looking for something else entirely, when I saw the book 'A Falcon for a Queen' by Catherine Gaskin. I don't remember loving it, although I did finish, and it has more of a gothic mystery vibe going on which may not fit the romantic comedy vibe you're looking for, but it is set during the Victorian period and the lead female is technically a Scot although she was raised in China where her father worked.
This video was fun! Even though I am not Scottish, most highlander romances make me roll my eyes. Anyway, what I find in a lot of romances is that they need some serious editing, and that’s why I dnf so many. So far, the most “foolproof” authors of historical romances for me are Sarah Maclean, Tessa Dare, Eloisa James, Mary Balogh, Sherry Thomas, Lisa Kleypas, Elizabeth Hoyt (more crackpot, but oddly enjoyable). All of them have good series to binge read. Have fun!
I read Highland Arms by Catherine Dunn last autumn after getting back from a trip to the highlands because I wanted to continue to feel that wonderful highlands atmosphere in a lighthearted way. The female protagonist is from Edinburgh and it's actually set in the highlands! I cant specifically remember where (or what the Male protagonist was called) but I really enjoyed it despite not generally being a historical romance reader
Jean comes on my phone. Goes I going to read (gulp) Highlander Romances. My Cat who's resting on my chest looks at the phone looks at me shakes his head. Jumps off to get breakfast. Really .
I grew up in Alaska and feel the same way reading books set there. Almost no one gets it right unless they’re actually familiar with the place themselves. There was a romance book last year set there that I feel like everyone loved and I HATED because so many of the details about Alaska were just plain wrong. I’d love to see a video recommending your favorite books written by Scot authors (forgive me if you’ve already done one, I’m a new subscriber 😁)
Ahh I can only imagine how you felt being from Alaska and reading those popular Alaskan set books! I love reading them but know that there's probably no way they're at all realistic. If you don't mind, which book in particular are you talking about?? I'm so curious!
Kasia Wysocki It was The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker. It was awful. So many inaccuracies. It reminded me of those terrible Hallmark Christmas movies that take place in Alaska. They’re the worst. In case you want a recommendation, my favorite book based in Alaska is The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. No other book that I’ve read has captured Alaska the way that one did. It didn’t surprise me at all to learn afterwards that Kristin Hannah lived in AK for a time growing up. Another good one is The Smell of Other People’s Houses by Bonnie Sue Hitchcock, who is also an Alaskan.
I love The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie! Such a great romance, and it was really ground-breaking in its depiction of autism at the time it came it out.
I understand your reasons for not reading outlander because I feel the same. I really enjoy reading Highland romances but I cant being myself to read it and I can't even explain why
I would 100% be here for a video series all about Scottish History, or a video all about Scottish History book recs (then again I love history so I am a bit biased lol)
This was such an interesting video! Loved to see your thoughts on the way that Scots are presented in Highlander romances. Since you've not yet found any great representation of Scots in romance, do you have recs for other genres? Or maybe your favorite Scottish authors? I just now find myself really wanting to read some good Scottish fiction, and given this video, you seem the person to ask.
Jean I loved this video! ❤️ I’ve been a fan of yours for a long time, love your perspective on books! Keep us posted if you find a truly great Highlander read please.
The only book I have found written by a Scottish author that can be described as 'Scottish romance' (and I have looked quite hard, as part of my PhD) is 'Where Have all the Boys Gone' by Jenny Colgan. Please do let me know if you find any!
I’ve read a lot of Lyndsay Sands highland romance books and although I do think bits of it are cheesy I just really enjoy reading them. I’d be curious to hear from you though about what books you would recommend to learn about the Scots dialect because I found it super interesting to hear your thoughts about the authors just using it wrong and I’d like to learn more 😊
Hi Jean. I really liked this video. Very entertaining and funny. Because of it, I listened to The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie and really enjoyed it. I especially liked how it was different than the norm in such romances.
So I admit I partly came to this video to see if you did read Outlander but I also wanted to see you comment on the accuracy, or lack of accuracy in the historical elements of the stories.
This was fun. I'm not Scottish but I've had similar trouble getting into books with characters that are supposedly from a certain place, yet they only have one word or what not to "identify" them. I'd pretty much given up on romance books, I'm more of a sci-fi/fantasy person, since pretty much every romance book I tried was either a christian romance, where the woman especially was pretty much relieved of all personality and their wasn't any emotional connection at all just what "god wanted" to the more mainstream romances, that sadly fell under "rape" that romance.... I am planning to check out some Tessa Dare sometime though. Poor Diana Gabaldon, she wasn't trying to write a romance book, and I don't really count Outlander as a romance book. She even went out of her way to ensure that a lot of the "romance novel tropes" weren't in her books or were reversed. Such as the man being the virgin, the fact that she ensured that while a bodice gets ripped in every book, it's usually like "got caught on a bush" or something. Now the show, which I tried to watch after reading the first book. Ugh, it was awful. Like offensively awful, it's like that disgusting mess Trueblood made of the Sookie Stackhouse books.
I loved this so much! I should do a week where I read Irish romances, I'm sure there's lots of similarities. Perfect English spoken except for a random "mo chroí" thrown in there. Shamrocks, green rolling hills, red hair, 'fiery' lasses/cailíns, leprechauns, rainbows, Guinness, over-the-top dialect (Irish people can in fact pronounce "th"), mentions of fairies *long suffering sigh*
Hi Jean! I'm a bit unsure of what you said about Gaelic and Brythonic. It was my understanding that Gaelic came quite early to Scotland from Irish immigrants [insert questions about the pseudo-historical founding of Dal Riada here]. I'm not quite sure where the book is set and how the timelines overlap, but Pictish was a widespread language and could have potentially been a Brythonic one, but was overtaken by Gaelic quite early. I'm not an expert but I'd guess that by 1171 that would be the Kingdom of Alba with a Gaelic speaking king?
Yup that’s what I said - Gaelic only became a dominant language in the 10th 11th centuries - so by the time you have mentioned and the book I was reading was set in the 12thth century (and as you mentioned it came from Ireland where are as previously it was Brythonic)
But that’s not that early really was what I was pointing out - Ie Scotland was inhabited hundreds of years earlier but didn’t speak Gaelic - im not sure I follow the confusion but the we all understand our own trains of thoughts aha
@@JeansThoughts Well, I guess I'm wondering whether we know that Pictish is a Brythonic language. But doesn't it also make sense for the character of the book to call Gaelic "our language"? For a historian 200 years is nothing but that's still a decent chunk of time for the individuals themselves and their notions of their own culture.
Poor you dnfing so many books! I loved the litlle historical tidbits you threw in, it makes me question everything ;) As for subgenres I love me an arranged marriage plot line or a fake dating. I feel like you can really play with your characters development then and it plays into my favourite thing of all, watching the characters from an outside perspective, e.g. when other side characters comment on the protagonists relationship, the parents offer help,... And I really like enemies-to-lovers but there are very few published books I know of that actual enemies and not dislike while joking around.
Thanks for the recommendation! I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes. I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Thanks for the recommendation! I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes. I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Jean Bookishthoughts Thanks for the recommendation! I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes. I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Fun video! I also tend to prefer 19th century historical romances. One sub genre I’m not a fan of is romantic suspense, for a reason similar to one you mentioned in this video: I can’t buy their “happily ever after”. Romantic suspense novels are so high octane, the characters are often in life threatening situations, and while I totally buy two characters falling in love in those extreme circumstances, I have a hard time believing that that love will stay solid after a return to normal life.
I guess I get the anti-Outlander thing... for me when I read stuff set in Louisiana/New Orleans or about Cajun people or something, a lot of times (almost all of the times) everything is really wrong or stupidly exaggerated, but it usually just makes me laugh. It’s been a while since I read Outlander but I feel like most of it’s not actually set in Scotland (though you do have the big stereotype of a Scot throughout). I just like the time-travel/strong female main character(s) with all the witchy bits... but I get it. I’m coming to terms with the fact that it’s not for you and I’m trying to be better about not needing everyone to love the thing I love. 😂😅 Love vlogs like this by the way. Especially the off the cuff stuff like when you had to DNF the first book.
Scotland does have a witchy history. Rather one believes in their doings/abilities is another thing but they existed. Maybe some people wouldn’t want it highlighted if they think it sounds “woohoo” but it’s not the only place and I think it adds to the lure of the land
I read a few books in this genre and have to say most of them have been pretty mediocre if not down right poor. However, I was quite pleasantly surprised to read the Jacobite Chronicles by Julia Brannan (a British indie author). The main story is about the relationship between the 2 main characters, but there's also quite a bit of political history thrown in (& seems fairly accurate). The first book in the series "Mask of Duplicity" is free on kindle.
Well there’s countless books in this genre so a few random ones doesn’t tell us much. Some are quite well done. Tessa Dare draws you from the beginning. Given me a reason to see what other big names in romance have tried the genre
I liked your video! Its interesting for me to know how inaccurate the "Highlander" Romances I've read are. It sucks because I genuinely wish to know more about Scotland in general (tho I guess reading romance novels is not the best way to do it in the first place lol).
I don’t think romance novels have to teach us but some authors are very meticulous with their research like Christina Hwang Dudley. There’s Scottish authors to read for realism. Highlander romances are more about a fantasy
I love anything Scottish, or from the Highlands. It is one of my favorite accents in the world. I have to admit that even today when I think of Scotland I think of the women normally and as guys walking around with Kilts, looking like Highlanders! Then when I have to face the fact that current Scottish guys don't actually walk around like that, it breaks my heart :o)
I can definitely see how reading the “Highlander” sub genre could be odd for you. I think I enjoy it because I enjoy the stereotypical alpha male with an accent 😄 I have read one or two book by Amy Jarecki and Paula Quinn that I’ve enjoyed but I’m fairly certain the hating of the English was prominent in them but it’s usually over come once they fall in love with the English lass 😉 Have you read any Scottish themed contemporary novels? Laura Trentham has newish series that starts with A Highlander Walks into a Bar and I really enjoyed them. They’re a fun rom com type book. 😃
I feel like living in the US has inured me to a lot of these stereotypes 😆 but I am also less Scottish than you and when the discussion comes up here I’m like, “hmm well technically I’m Irish and Eastern European ok bye”. Your rant about the clearances reminded me of the Talisker distillery’s history museum area referring to landowners “using a technique called clearing” waaahhhh. I’ve actually found Europeans more likely to call me English than Americans are, which is strange.
Outlander is one of the only books I have ever DNFd! It was incredibly frustrating and characters just randomly just bursting into one of Scots phrases.
A romance called " A Heart's Journey" by Beth Howard found on Amazon. About a woman leaving America and returns to a small town of her childhood in England. She finds a whole new life.
You may not read it but are you planning on watching outlander? I read the first one and they just get bigger and bigger so I have no idea if I can bring myself to read the 2nd one. I am reading lowborn out of your recommendation BTW and it is so heart breaking but such a fascinating social commentary
Your video was recommended for me...not sure if it’s because I love Outlander or books in general but I really was hoping to get your thoughts on Outlander. Unfortunately I saw you said here in the comments you would never read them. I’m so curious why?? Can you explain?
ANNNNNNDDD I should have done my comment after I finished the video because you answer my question and obviously knew I, personally, was going to be watching! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
You might try reading the historical fiction by George McDonald, that's a good read: Heather and Snow. The author is a scot so the vocabulary and dialogue with the accent reads as if you were hearing them speak
As a lot of others I enjoyed this video very much. I think it is Natural that you get nit picky, as you say you are Reading about "Your" stuff and culture.
I'm not Scottish, but the dialogue thing really annoys me too. I think it was One Dublin Street and the guy is half Scottish and he suddenly throws it in, but it doesn't feel authentic. I'm loving your romance content, last year I also added some romance reads into my regular reading to break things up and to have a bit of fun in my reading, so I'm kind of in the same place as you are in my journey. One I've seen recommended, so it's on my TBR list is In Bed with a Highlander. I'm going to give that a go this year.
It’s such a shame that you don’t want to read Outlander, as it has one of the strongest female character I’ve ever read : Claire. And the author is a university professor, so she did her research. And the love story is epic. I can only hope you’ll change your mind Jean ! Despite that, this was such a fun video, thank you !
I’m sure the author is a very intelligent woman but from what I’ve seen and read from Scottish historians who have commented on the books they do over simplify Scottish history. Something that does just seem to be a trend amongst non Scottish authors writing about Scotland and it’s history in these genres, it tends to get ‘romanticised’. I’ve no problem with other people enjoying it though, it’s just not for me ☺️. I think generally speaking it’s more popular outside of Scotland and that’s totally ok aha. Glad you enjoyed the video!
When a Scott Ties the Knot was actually my first romance book and it was great! I still don't delve into the genre too too much but I want to read more of her. I love that the book had a fun way to go about their relationship rather than just BAM lust.
I clicked on this because I thought it would FOR SURE include Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I enjoyed it nonetheless, and I would love to see you review THAT one.
Sometimes I just like to a read a book 😂😂😂. I love the sub genre myself but while I'm super Scottish in my ancestry... I'm just an American. 😂😂. Enjoyed the vid. I enjoy all the cliched romances in general. Be they Scottish Irish English or cowboy. 😂😂😂.
When I read Scottish romance's, I tend to want them to be just plain English. Whenever they try Scots Gaelic they use it weirdly and random or it's so garbled I can't understand what they are saying..
Yeah I don't call the genre highlander romance cause of the whole highlander vs lowlander. Just scottish or the time period it's set in. Karen Hawkins writes regency books. The first book of hers that brings in a scottish character is "how to abduct a highland lord" she kidnaps a groom to stop a clan war. Julie Garwoods "Secret" and "Ransom" are medieval and unlike a lot of 90s and 2000s books have stood the test of time, karen Marie Moning for time travel fun set in I believe the 1600 and modern times, Kinley Macgregor has a few set in medieval times as well, they are good and interesting dealing with the fallout of the crusades (disclaimer they are older romances soo read with the caution of a more feminist time) lyndsay sands, also medieval and funny. Lydia Dare regency/ magic has a coven from Edinburgh. Most of these scottish characters have some sort of disdain for English but some of that is because the writers are from North America. As someone who is american when we think about historical times we are trained to think of historical England as the bad guy, the taxers, invaders, and colonists, who we had to fight against to win our freedom. At the same time seeing England as powerful and elegant hence the popularity of the regency genre and the fact that most of those books only mention the napoleonic wars and mot the other war England was in at the time. Sorry for the deep dive but when you were talking about the fact that it bothered you it made me think, Why? Why are the characters written to dislike the English? Also how would you write the scottish accent and dialect? What historical words and accent notes would you use to not make it annoying to you but also readable for the average (sigh) American.
I'm super curious what you would think of the Enlightenment series, by Joanna Chambers. It's not a highlander romance, but it /is/ set in Scotland and also queer and historical. I really loved it, especially the audiobooks which have a Scottish narrator: Hamish Mckinlay, who is fantastic.
I haven’t read Outlander yet but I do have it on my list. Why do Scots not like it? I’m assuming it doesn’t properly represent the culture or language? 🤷♀️
Yup that’s about it - and it’s popularity hasn’t really done anything for the real Scotland but only romanticised/fetishised it for people outside of Scotland.
Jean Bookishthoughts All fair. I’ve watched the show and definitely enjoy it but I’m also the weirdo who has my phone with me the whole time, looking up places and battles to test the theories. 😂
Jean, I am LIVING for this video! I'm not Scottish, but part of my PhD research focuses on 17th and early 18th century Scotland and that has led to zero tolerance for the kind of clichés you've mentioned throughout this video (the random Scots words, the English-Scottish dichotomy that completely ignores internal Scottish conflicts, equating 'highlander' with 'Scottish', ...). People keep recommending me Outlander and I just... CAN'T.
Never will we read Outlander ❤️
Canadian with Highlander ancestors ...and I have carried a huge aversion to this series. I tried to read Outlander but no. I feel a bit validated now. 🙂
Great video Jean! Reading When a Scot Ties a Knot now, it's just what I'm in the mood for although not my typical genre. I know you said you would never read Outlander but I would love to hear you talk about why. Love your videos ❤️
love the bits of history you've included in this video!
Thanks!
I would actually like to see you read 'Outlander', just so we could get a well informed Scottish opinion of it.
It's become such a phenomenon, and people read it thinking it's teaching them something of Scottish history, and yet it's full of inaccuracies. (I suspect the fact that Diana Gabaldon was an academic is what has lead people to the false conclusion that she did her homework.)
It's interesting to note that when he was PM, David Cameron had the premier of the TV series delayed in the UK, lest it influence the outcome of the Scottish independence reforendum.
I don't want to offend, and accepting that everyone is allowed different taste's, but I am not a fan of Diana Gabaldon's books, a bit too "rapey".
@@ohoyohummered yes I think the same. I tried to read it but stopped because of that. I then tried watching it because I thought they wouldn't show it but they showed it and so long and now I can't watch it anymore.
@@ohoyohummeredI believe that’s a reality of women that doesn’t need to glazed over, depends on how it was portrayed in relation to reality
She could’ve done her homework and still altered the history for the sake of fiction...it’s a time travel historical romance adventure after all. But I understand why some want more accuracy
@@Nothereforit174 I totally agree, rape is too much of a reality for women. That's why when I read my romance fantasy books I don't want to read about the horrid realities that women must endure.
I am far from a book burner and not everyone wants to read total "fluff", but for me, give me rainbows and happily ever after.
I haven't tried reading romance books set in Ireland for this reason. There would be so much eye rolling, I might hurt myself.
😂
Saaaaame 😁
"The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie" is one of the best historical romance books I've read.
The calm way you've said "I'm genuinely terrified of what I'm going to find there" 😂🤣 I don't read romance, I'm from Austria, so none of this affects me and one minute in I already know, this is going to be a hilarious way to start my Monday 🤣😂 thank you!!
I've been watching booktube for years and I've followed many channels but you're the only one who's videos I anticipate. You're the only one I watch these days. I find you to be a beautiful bundle of happiness and I'm inspired by how diverse your reading is. Hope you'll keep on making these awesome videos forever.
Thanks for taking one for the team. I've always avoided them. Can't wait to watch this whole thing!
This was such a fun video! Thank you for working on this project. I am not in the habit of remembering historical facts, so I don’t necessarily question those elements in historical fiction, but hearing the commentary from someone who does is fascinating. I would love more videos like this, because this is an area where you really shine in your additional knowledge and I feel like it makes the videos really educational and interesting. Thank you again!
I love the idea and your facial expression when you were talking about the tropes! 😂😂😂
Loved this, the little bits of historical/cultural facts, the whole style of the video, the onscreen text adding to what you were saying (which is something I often enjoy in youtube videos when it's humorous/cheeky); even though I'm not much of a romance reader (not that I don't enjoy romance in books, I just don't tend to read books with "romance" as the main descriptor, iykwim), it's still enjoyable to watch you discuss it ^_^
I've read when the Scot ties the knot and I loved it
I was looking forward to this video and it didn’t disappoint. I love how you added the historical facts and the way you tell the plot
I’m so interested to see if you like Julie Garwood! She has both regency and Scottish romances. The Secret is the start of her Scottish romances. Her books are older but still enjoyable
Great fun to hear your slant on Highlander stories.
So glad you pronounce Menzies properly, I had a patient who told me I had pronounced their name wrong when I pronounced it like that - I was extra confused because it was in dundee where there is an area called Menzieshill that everyone pronounces it right! Also totally get the outlander thing, I can just about enjoy the tv show with minimal dry heaving but tried the first book and had to put it down because I was out loud shouting at it
“None of those look like real tartans”...😂😂
As a scot I loved this video hahaha, some of the portrayals are painful and hilarious. On another topic, I'd be interested to know who tour favourite Scottish authors are 😊🦄
"Everyone there was ginger." I had completely forgotten about that stereotype!
As for favourite sub-genres, I love Regency paranormal romance, a la the Gail Carriger books.
WE’RE ALL GINGER don’t forget 😂
But also I need to read more regency paranormal romances!
@@JeansThoughts I'll try to think of what other good ones I've read!
The highwayman by Kerrigan Byrne and the Highlander by her as well are really really good! Also the second book in the series after the madness of lord Ian Mackenzie is my fav, it’s called “lady isabellas scandalous marriage” and it’s about Ian’s brother Cameron! So good!
I don't read highland or any other romance books. Will I now? No. Was this an educational and highly fun video and I loved every second of it? YES.
As a fellow Scot, I loved this video Jean!
Goodstuff i like your historical Insights.
Cheers ☺️
I'm loving all the fun Scottish facts. I'm an American of Scottish ancestry, so I find all of this very fascinating and enlightening.
This was a delightful video and I hope you do it again at some point!
omg jean i loved this so much! and now i really gotta read a tessa dare book!
Lovely video Jean! My personal favorite sub-genre of romance is paranormal. Not so much vampires (except for a phase in my teens), but other magical creatures like shape shifters and witches and other people with magical abilities etc. A lot of the books I read have plots about crimes, and the books sometimes feels like a mix of romance, paranormal and thriller. They are a lot of fun!
this was so fun to watch !! thank you for all the historical facts while reading !!
We have a similar thing in Australia with "Outback" romances but, suprisingly to me, they all seem to actually be written by Australians. If I ever find one written by someone from overseas, I'd be so curious to check it out to see how accurate the vernacular and culture is. Also, I didn't even consider for a second that I would have a suggestion for a Highlander romance, but I just so happened to be scrolling back through my Read shelf on Goodreads today, looking for something else entirely, when I saw the book 'A Falcon for a Queen' by Catherine Gaskin. I don't remember loving it, although I did finish, and it has more of a gothic mystery vibe going on which may not fit the romantic comedy vibe you're looking for, but it is set during the Victorian period and the lead female is technically a Scot although she was raised in China where her father worked.
I absolutely loved this! I would happily watch tonnes more like it. 😊
This video was fun! Even though I am not Scottish, most highlander romances make me roll my eyes. Anyway, what I find in a lot of romances is that they need some serious editing, and that’s why I dnf so many. So far, the most “foolproof” authors of historical romances for me are Sarah Maclean, Tessa Dare, Eloisa James, Mary Balogh, Sherry Thomas, Lisa Kleypas, Elizabeth Hoyt (more crackpot, but oddly enjoyable). All of them have good series to binge read. Have fun!
I read Highland Arms by Catherine Dunn last autumn after getting back from a trip to the highlands because I wanted to continue to feel that wonderful highlands atmosphere in a lighthearted way. The female protagonist is from Edinburgh and it's actually set in the highlands! I cant specifically remember where (or what the Male protagonist was called) but I really enjoyed it despite not generally being a historical romance reader
THE BEST EXPERIMENT/CHALLENGE VLOG I'VE EVER SEEN!!!!
Ahaha thanks so much! 💪
Jean comes on my phone. Goes I going to read (gulp) Highlander Romances. My Cat who's resting on my chest looks at the phone looks at me shakes his head. Jumps off to get breakfast. Really .
I grew up in Alaska and feel the same way reading books set there. Almost no one gets it right unless they’re actually familiar with the place themselves. There was a romance book last year set there that I feel like everyone loved and I HATED because so many of the details about Alaska were just plain wrong.
I’d love to see a video recommending your favorite books written by Scot authors (forgive me if you’ve already done one, I’m a new subscriber 😁)
Ahh I can only imagine how you felt being from Alaska and reading those popular Alaskan set books! I love reading them but know that there's probably no way they're at all realistic.
If you don't mind, which book in particular are you talking about?? I'm so curious!
Kasia Wysocki It was The Simple Wild by K.A. Tucker. It was awful. So many inaccuracies. It reminded me of those terrible Hallmark Christmas movies that take place in Alaska. They’re the worst.
In case you want a recommendation, my favorite book based in Alaska is The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah. No other book that I’ve read has captured Alaska the way that one did. It didn’t surprise me at all to learn afterwards that Kristin Hannah lived in AK for a time growing up.
Another good one is The Smell of Other People’s Houses by Bonnie Sue Hitchcock, who is also an Alaskan.
Yeah it's painfully obvious that Outlander is written by an American woman / someone who has never actually lived in Scotland
I love The Madness of Lord Ian MacKenzie! Such a great romance, and it was really ground-breaking in its depiction of autism at the time it came it out.
loved this reading experiment!! so creative xx
Just found your channel, and I'm intrigued.
Samantha Young is Scottish and has written some contemporary Scottish characters, including her Adair family series starting with Here With Me.
I thought she said “Pretty sure they are blowing the leaves”. Nope “wearing blouses at least”
I understand your reasons for not reading outlander because I feel the same. I really enjoy reading Highland romances but I cant being myself to read it and I can't even explain why
This was really wonderfully specific!
I would 100% be here for a video series all about Scottish History, or a video all about Scottish History book recs (then again I love history so I am a bit biased lol)
This was such an interesting video! Loved to see your thoughts on the way that Scots are presented in Highlander romances. Since you've not yet found any great representation of Scots in romance, do you have recs for other genres? Or maybe your favorite Scottish authors? I just now find myself really wanting to read some good Scottish fiction, and given this video, you seem the person to ask.
Thanks! I actually already have a video of Scottish recommendations if you’re looking for some ☺️ th-cam.com/video/9LYEGO8aJhk/w-d-xo.html
Jean I loved this video! ❤️ I’ve been a fan of yours for a long time, love your perspective on books! Keep us posted if you find a truly great Highlander read please.
I mean I still stand for the madness of lord Ian Mackenzie as verging on a five star aha
Such a fun video! I'm really interested in The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie now
It's definitely worth a read ^_^
It’s a series and I think Ian’s book is the third.
This was such a fun video! 😊
The only book I have found written by a Scottish author that can be described as 'Scottish romance' (and I have looked quite hard, as part of my PhD) is 'Where Have all the Boys Gone' by Jenny Colgan. Please do let me know if you find any!
love this V-log Jean, everything is perfect. 👌
I’ve read a lot of Lyndsay Sands highland romance books and although I do think bits of it are cheesy I just really enjoy reading them. I’d be curious to hear from you though about what books you would recommend to learn about the Scots dialect because I found it super interesting to hear your thoughts about the authors just using it wrong and I’d like to learn more 😊
Try the 44 Scotland Street series by Alexander McCall Smith. That should do in the Scottish romance department.
Such an excellent video idea and video!
Thanks a lot!
I love the history of Scotland.
That's my feelings towards the Outlander series too, haven't read them haven't seen the show either.
This reminded me of when my history teacher reluctantly let us watch Braveheart 😂 I’m Scottish too so would probably have the same reactions as you!
God that film is worse than all of these books put together 😂
Hi Jean. I really liked this video. Very entertaining and funny. Because of it, I listened to The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie and really enjoyed it. I especially liked how it was different than the norm in such romances.
So I admit I partly came to this video to see if you did read Outlander but I also wanted to see you comment on the accuracy, or lack of accuracy in the historical elements of the stories.
I'm new to seeing your vids. Love Tessa dare! Curious what your thoughts are on k.m. Moning's highlander series. Been years since I read them.
This was fun. I'm not Scottish but I've had similar trouble getting into books with characters that are supposedly from a certain place, yet they only have one word or what not to "identify" them.
I'd pretty much given up on romance books, I'm more of a sci-fi/fantasy person, since pretty much every romance book I tried was either a christian romance, where the woman especially was pretty much relieved of all personality and their wasn't any emotional connection at all just what "god wanted" to the more mainstream romances, that sadly fell under "rape" that romance.... I am planning to check out some Tessa Dare sometime though.
Poor Diana Gabaldon, she wasn't trying to write a romance book, and I don't really count Outlander as a romance book. She even went out of her way to ensure that a lot of the "romance novel tropes" weren't in her books or were reversed. Such as the man being the virgin, the fact that she ensured that while a bodice gets ripped in every book, it's usually like "got caught on a bush" or something. Now the show, which I tried to watch after reading the first book. Ugh, it was awful. Like offensively awful, it's like that disgusting mess Trueblood made of the Sookie Stackhouse books.
Now I kind of wanna read When a Scot Ties the Knot too
It’s very funny!
And today I learn Scott stuff which is so cool
When a Scot Ties the Knot is my favourite of Tessa Dare, along with Goddess of the Hunt (great female friendship in that one if you're interested).
Love a female friendship, that makes me all the more excited for the goddess hunt!
I loved this so much! I should do a week where I read Irish romances, I'm sure there's lots of similarities. Perfect English spoken except for a random "mo chroí" thrown in there. Shamrocks, green rolling hills, red hair, 'fiery' lasses/cailíns, leprechauns, rainbows, Guinness, over-the-top dialect (Irish people can in fact pronounce "th"), mentions of fairies *long suffering sigh*
Hi Jean! I'm a bit unsure of what you said about Gaelic and Brythonic. It was my understanding that Gaelic came quite early to Scotland from Irish immigrants [insert questions about the pseudo-historical founding of Dal Riada here]. I'm not quite sure where the book is set and how the timelines overlap, but Pictish was a widespread language and could have potentially been a Brythonic one, but was overtaken by Gaelic quite early. I'm not an expert but I'd guess that by 1171 that would be the Kingdom of Alba with a Gaelic speaking king?
Yup that’s what I said - Gaelic only became a dominant language in the 10th 11th centuries - so by the time you have mentioned and the book I was reading was set in the 12thth century (and as you mentioned it came from Ireland where are as previously it was Brythonic)
But that’s not that early really was what I was pointing out - Ie Scotland was inhabited hundreds of years earlier but didn’t speak Gaelic - im not sure I follow the confusion but the we all understand our own trains of thoughts aha
@@JeansThoughts Well, I guess I'm wondering whether we know that Pictish is a Brythonic language. But doesn't it also make sense for the character of the book to call Gaelic "our language"? For a historian 200 years is nothing but that's still a decent chunk of time for the individuals themselves and their notions of their own culture.
Yes that’s what I said ☺️ I said it’s relatively recent but I appreciate for the character it wouldn’t feel that way
I’ve started that book.. I’m captivated so far!
Great video! Very much enjoyed!
So pleased to hear!
Poor you dnfing so many books!
I loved the litlle historical tidbits you threw in, it makes me question everything ;)
As for subgenres I love me an arranged marriage plot line or a fake dating. I feel like you can really play with your characters development then and it plays into my favourite thing of all, watching the characters from an outside perspective, e.g. when other side characters comment on the protagonists relationship, the parents offer help,...
And I really like enemies-to-lovers but there are very few published books I know of that actual enemies and not dislike while joking around.
Have you read any Georgette Heyer? I’ve thought about reading but don’t know a good one to start with
I read The Corinithian which was my first one in December and really enjoyed it ☺️
Thanks for the recommendation!
I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes.
I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Thanks for the recommendation!
I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes.
I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Jean Bookishthoughts
Thanks for the recommendation!
I’m Scottish and I struggle with the weird inclusion of Scots in these books, and the overly anti-English tropes.
I did read a couple as a young adult and got some remarkably good sex Ed though HAHAHAHA
Fun video! I also tend to prefer 19th century historical romances. One sub genre I’m not a fan of is romantic suspense, for a reason similar to one you mentioned in this video: I can’t buy their “happily ever after”. Romantic suspense novels are so high octane, the characters are often in life threatening situations, and while I totally buy two characters falling in love in those extreme circumstances, I have a hard time believing that that love will stay solid after a return to normal life.
This was very enjoyable! ❤️
I guess I get the anti-Outlander thing... for me when I read stuff set in Louisiana/New Orleans or about Cajun people or something, a lot of times (almost all of the times) everything is really wrong or stupidly exaggerated, but it usually just makes me laugh.
It’s been a while since I read Outlander but I feel like most of it’s not actually set in Scotland (though you do have the big stereotype of a Scot throughout). I just like the time-travel/strong female main character(s) with all the witchy bits... but I get it. I’m coming to terms with the fact that it’s not for you and I’m trying to be better about not needing everyone to love the thing I love. 😂😅
Love vlogs like this by the way. Especially the off the cuff stuff like when you had to DNF the first book.
Scotland does have a witchy history. Rather one believes in their doings/abilities is another thing but they existed. Maybe some people wouldn’t want it highlighted if they think it sounds “woohoo” but it’s not the only place and I think it adds to the lure of the land
I read a few books in this genre and have to say most of them have been pretty mediocre if not down right poor. However, I was quite pleasantly surprised to read the Jacobite Chronicles by Julia Brannan (a British indie author). The main story is about the relationship between the 2 main characters, but there's also quite a bit of political history thrown in (& seems fairly accurate). The first book in the series "Mask of Duplicity" is free on kindle.
Well there’s countless books in this genre so a few random ones doesn’t tell us much. Some are quite well done. Tessa Dare draws you from the beginning. Given me a reason to see what other big names in romance have tried the genre
I liked your video! Its interesting for me to know how inaccurate the "Highlander" Romances I've read are. It sucks because I genuinely wish to know more about Scotland in general (tho I guess reading romance novels is not the best way to do it in the first place lol).
I don’t think romance novels have to teach us but some authors are very meticulous with their research like Christina Hwang Dudley. There’s Scottish authors to read for realism. Highlander romances are more about a fantasy
this was so fun and interesting :)
I love anything Scottish, or from the Highlands. It is one of my favorite accents in the world. I have to admit that even today when I think of Scotland I think of the women normally and as guys walking around with Kilts, looking like Highlanders! Then when I have to face the fact that current Scottish guys don't actually walk around like that, it breaks my heart :o)
I can definitely see how reading the “Highlander” sub genre could be odd for you. I think I enjoy it because I enjoy the stereotypical alpha male with an accent 😄 I have read one or two book by Amy Jarecki and Paula Quinn that I’ve enjoyed but I’m fairly certain the hating of the English was prominent in them but it’s usually over come once they fall in love with the English lass 😉 Have you read any Scottish themed contemporary novels? Laura Trentham has newish series that starts with A Highlander Walks into a Bar and I really enjoyed them. They’re a fun rom com type book. 😃
I feel like living in the US has inured me to a lot of these stereotypes 😆 but I am also less Scottish than you and when the discussion comes up here I’m like, “hmm well technically I’m Irish and Eastern European ok bye”. Your rant about the clearances reminded me of the Talisker distillery’s history museum area referring to landowners “using a technique called clearing” waaahhhh. I’ve actually found Europeans more likely to call me English than Americans are, which is strange.
Outlander is one of the only books I have ever DNFd! It was incredibly frustrating and characters just randomly just bursting into one of Scots phrases.
Loved your video! Mad for Love sounds like the plot of the movie “How to Steal a Million”. If you enjoy the book, you might enjoy the movie.
What a fab video idea!
Thanks!
A romance called " A Heart's Journey" by Beth Howard found on Amazon. About a woman leaving America and returns to a small town of her childhood in England. She finds a whole new life.
I love Tessa Dare!!
I LOVE THIS VIDEO SO MUCH
I think the most ironic thing about this is that I watched your video while having vegetarian haggis for lunch x) I couldn't be more on brand x)
Excellent life choices right there!
I have no interest in Higlander or any other kind of romances but I thorougly enjoyed this video.
You may not read it but are you planning on watching outlander? I read the first one and they just get bigger and bigger so I have no idea if I can bring myself to read the 2nd one. I am reading lowborn out of your recommendation BTW and it is so heart breaking but such a fascinating social commentary
Nope 😂 I’ve seen bits of some episodes and that was enough forever.
Oh I’m so glad you’re enjoying Lowborn btw!
@@JeansThoughts I have to put it down sometimes because some of it is just so harrowing
Your video was recommended for me...not sure if it’s because I love Outlander or books in general but I really was hoping to get your thoughts on Outlander. Unfortunately I saw you said here in the comments you would never read them. I’m so curious why?? Can you explain?
ANNNNNNDDD I should have done my comment after I finished the video because you answer my question and obviously knew I, personally, was going to be watching! 🤣🤣🤣🤣
You might try reading the historical fiction by George McDonald, that's a good read: Heather and Snow. The author is a scot so the vocabulary and dialogue with the accent reads as if you were hearing them speak
As a lot of others I enjoyed this video very much. I think it is Natural that you get nit picky, as you say you are Reading about "Your" stuff and culture.
When a Scot ties the knot is the best. It’s hilarious! I laughed so much
I'm not Scottish, but the dialogue thing really annoys me too. I think it was One Dublin Street and the guy is half Scottish and he suddenly throws it in, but it doesn't feel authentic.
I'm loving your romance content, last year I also added some romance reads into my regular reading to break things up and to have a bit of fun in my reading, so I'm kind of in the same place as you are in my journey.
One I've seen recommended, so it's on my TBR list is In Bed with a Highlander. I'm going to give that a go this year.
It’s such a shame that you don’t want to read Outlander, as it has one of the strongest female character I’ve ever read : Claire. And the author is a university professor, so she did her research. And the love story is epic. I can only hope you’ll change your mind Jean !
Despite that, this was such a fun video, thank you !
I’m sure the author is a very intelligent woman but from what I’ve seen and read from Scottish historians who have commented on the books they do over simplify Scottish history. Something that does just seem to be a trend amongst non Scottish authors writing about Scotland and it’s history in these genres, it tends to get ‘romanticised’. I’ve no problem with other people enjoying it though, it’s just not for me ☺️. I think generally speaking it’s more popular outside of Scotland and that’s totally ok aha. Glad you enjoyed the video!
When a Scott Ties the Knot was actually my first romance book and it was great! I still don't delve into the genre too too much but I want to read more of her. I love that the book had a fun way to go about their relationship rather than just BAM lust.
I clicked on this because I thought it would FOR SURE include Outlander by Diana Gabaldon. I enjoyed it nonetheless, and I would love to see you review THAT one.
PS I LOVE your accent ;-;
Sometimes I just like to a read a book 😂😂😂. I love the sub genre myself but while I'm super Scottish in my ancestry... I'm just an American. 😂😂. Enjoyed the vid. I enjoy all the cliched romances in general. Be they Scottish Irish English or cowboy. 😂😂😂.
When I read Scottish romance's, I tend to want them to be just plain English. Whenever they try Scots Gaelic they use it weirdly and random or it's so garbled I can't understand what they are saying..
Yeah I don't call the genre highlander romance cause of the whole highlander vs lowlander. Just scottish or the time period it's set in. Karen Hawkins writes regency books. The first book of hers that brings in a scottish character is "how to abduct a highland lord" she kidnaps a groom to stop a clan war. Julie Garwoods "Secret" and "Ransom" are medieval and unlike a lot of 90s and 2000s books have stood the test of time, karen Marie Moning for time travel fun set in I believe the 1600 and modern times, Kinley Macgregor has a few set in medieval times as well, they are good and interesting dealing with the fallout of the crusades (disclaimer they are older romances soo read with the caution of a more feminist time) lyndsay sands, also medieval and funny. Lydia Dare regency/ magic has a coven from Edinburgh. Most of these scottish characters have some sort of disdain for English but some of that is because the writers are from North America. As someone who is american when we think about historical times we are trained to think of historical England as the bad guy, the taxers, invaders, and colonists, who we had to fight against to win our freedom. At the same time seeing England as powerful and elegant hence the popularity of the regency genre and the fact that most of those books only mention the napoleonic wars and mot the other war England was in at the time. Sorry for the deep dive but when you were talking about the fact that it bothered you it made me think, Why? Why are the characters written to dislike the English? Also how would you write the scottish accent and dialect? What historical words and accent notes would you use to not make it annoying to you but also readable for the average (sigh) American.
I'm super curious what you would think of the Enlightenment series, by Joanna Chambers. It's not a highlander romance, but it /is/ set in Scotland and also queer and historical. I really loved it, especially the audiobooks which have a Scottish narrator: Hamish Mckinlay, who is fantastic.
Also for general queer historical romances: try k.j. charles. I prefere her non-fantasy stuff, personally, but there's also some fantasy books.
I actually read proper English by kJ Charles in December and loved it ☺️
@@JeansThoughts i didn't know that! I only just reread Proper English in january, it's one of my favourites of hers.
Wow, Mad For Love really sounds like How To Steal A Million, the movie with Audrey Hepburn...🙈
I haven’t read Outlander yet but I do have it on my list. Why do Scots not like it? I’m assuming it doesn’t properly represent the culture or language? 🤷♀️
Yup that’s about it - and it’s popularity hasn’t really done anything for the real Scotland but only romanticised/fetishised it for people outside of Scotland.
Jean Bookishthoughts All fair. I’ve watched the show and definitely enjoy it but I’m also the weirdo who has my phone with me the whole time, looking up places and battles to test the theories. 😂