This HaBO request is from MelKelCan, who wants to track down this romance:
Once upon a time I read a historical romance set in Scotland (I think?) where the heroine was married to a lord of some kind, who became ill and progressively lost control of his legs. They discovered that he would be unable to father children, or even have sex.
At some point, a third character entered the scene, possibly a former laird of a clan, who was big and brawny and the husband suggested the heroine “lay with” the Scot for some baby-making. Eventually the heroine fell for both men, multiple children were born, and the husband’s health deteriorated until he died—leaving his title to the first born.
Ring any bells?
I don’t know the answer, but the plot is definitely giving off strong “Lady Chatterley’s Lover” vibes!
I don’t remember if it’s set in Scotland, but I know “Waking Up With the Duke” by Lorraine Heath the husband makes a deal with his friend to impregnate his reluctant wife because he’s too sick to do it (she is obviously horrified…until she isn’t).
Grace Borrowes’ book “Darius” has a similar plot but the MMC is hired by the husband. If I’m remembering correctly he’s paid for sex by ladies of the ton and impregnating the FMC will pay him enough to clear his debts.
Not a Scotsman in sight, but LaVyrle Spencer’s THE FULFILLMENT has a similar setup: husband is sterile, suggests brother step in to fulfill the “creating an heir” requirements. Initially, wife and brother-in-law are appalled by the idea, but eventually….
This is such a popular Old Skool plotline but I love the poly implications in this particular utterance.
I had a challenging day, so thank you, D3, for your “Not a Scotsman in sight” comment and the gust of laughter it caused.
I have no problem with this plot line if there is full consent. But when the husband says, “Just pretend you’re me. It’s dark, she’ll never know.” NO NO NO!
LOL, Lady Chatterly’s Lover Wears a Kilt?
@SusanE Of all of Roald Dahl’s short stories for adults, “The Great Switcheroo” is one of the ickiest and the idea of a romance novel based on a similar concept is NOT NICE.
Reminds me of a book by Kate Poole “Anchor and Storm”