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Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander's Arms
On the first day of Christmas my true love gave to me....
Twelve Highlander heroes, brave and true.
Honor-bound and sworn to protect, they're about to meet their match in twelve feisty heroines.
Amidst the wild Scottish mountains, the snow is falling deep, but twelve heart-warming stories of love await--one for each day of Christmas.
Discover an embroidered partridge fuelling revenge, two turtle doves sealing an ill-fated match, a feathery Yuletide tale, the betrothal of a reluctant songbird, five golden rings forged in forbidden love, a pet goose who represents a second chance, a swan taking flight, a dairymaid with murder on her mind, nine ladies dancing in the moonlight, a duty-bound laird and a wayward lady, a beautiful piper, and a ghostly drummer playing matchmaker.
Twelve historical romance tales set against the backdrop of snowy medieval Scotland at Christmas.
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt
A revenge-obsessed lass keeps a depiction of her clan's partridge close to her heart in this passion-steeped enemies-to-lovers Yuletide tale.
Highland Dove - by Elizabeth Rose
Will Duncan MacLean be able to escape the English prison in time to fulfill his promise of marrying Mari Stewart on Hogmanay, before she weds another?
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale - by Hildie McQueen
Riding in the back of a cart down the center of the village could be quite embarrassing. Riding in the back of a cart, in a cage with three chickens, was mortifying.
Brenna's Yuletide Song - by Cathy MacRae
Humor abounds in this rollicking tale of a pampered merchant’s daughter and the Highlander she must marry.
Ringing in Yule - by Sky Purington
Will years of forbidden love remind Tavish and Nessa what's at stake before she marries another?
Highlander's Christmas - by Mariah Stone
A secret child. A pet goose. And an unlikely couple who could get a second chance at love this Christmas—if he doesn’t kill her father.
Highland Swan - by Anna Markland
Dr. Pendray must save his patient’s life, though it means losing the woman he loves.
The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart - by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
Disguised as a simple dairymaid, Lady Flora Dalreagh sneaks into the home of the warrior she believes murdered her father, intent on revenge.
The Laird's Midnight Dancer - by Ashe Barker
A sacred stone circle, moonlight, and a bewitching midnight dancer to bring a laird to his knees…
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay
A laird who fears making a mistake, and a lady whose made one mistake after another...innocence and experience, fire and ice make for one steamy Christmas.
The Piper - by Lily Baldwin
A battle-wounded laird whose sight has been stolen is soothed by the music of a beautiful piper who also bears scars of a tragic past.
Scot Under the Mistletoe - by Caroline Lee
A ghostly drummer turns out to be very much flesh and blood in this hilarious Yuletide romp featuring a second-chance romance, a mysterious little plant, and more than a few Henrys.
Twelve Highlander heroes, brave and true.
Honor-bound and sworn to protect, they're about to meet their match in twelve feisty heroines.
Amidst the wild Scottish mountains, the snow is falling deep, but twelve heart-warming stories of love await--one for each day of Christmas.
Discover an embroidered partridge fuelling revenge, two turtle doves sealing an ill-fated match, a feathery Yuletide tale, the betrothal of a reluctant songbird, five golden rings forged in forbidden love, a pet goose who represents a second chance, a swan taking flight, a dairymaid with murder on her mind, nine ladies dancing in the moonlight, a duty-bound laird and a wayward lady, a beautiful piper, and a ghostly drummer playing matchmaker.
Twelve historical romance tales set against the backdrop of snowy medieval Scotland at Christmas.
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt
A revenge-obsessed lass keeps a depiction of her clan's partridge close to her heart in this passion-steeped enemies-to-lovers Yuletide tale.
Highland Dove - by Elizabeth Rose
Will Duncan MacLean be able to escape the English prison in time to fulfill his promise of marrying Mari Stewart on Hogmanay, before she weds another?
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale - by Hildie McQueen
Riding in the back of a cart down the center of the village could be quite embarrassing. Riding in the back of a cart, in a cage with three chickens, was mortifying.
Brenna's Yuletide Song - by Cathy MacRae
Humor abounds in this rollicking tale of a pampered merchant’s daughter and the Highlander she must marry.
Ringing in Yule - by Sky Purington
Will years of forbidden love remind Tavish and Nessa what's at stake before she marries another?
Highlander's Christmas - by Mariah Stone
A secret child. A pet goose. And an unlikely couple who could get a second chance at love this Christmas—if he doesn’t kill her father.
Highland Swan - by Anna Markland
Dr. Pendray must save his patient’s life, though it means losing the woman he loves.
The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart - by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
Disguised as a simple dairymaid, Lady Flora Dalreagh sneaks into the home of the warrior she believes murdered her father, intent on revenge.
The Laird's Midnight Dancer - by Ashe Barker
A sacred stone circle, moonlight, and a bewitching midnight dancer to bring a laird to his knees…
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay
A laird who fears making a mistake, and a lady whose made one mistake after another...innocence and experience, fire and ice make for one steamy Christmas.
The Piper - by Lily Baldwin
A battle-wounded laird whose sight has been stolen is soothed by the music of a beautiful piper who also bears scars of a tragic past.
Scot Under the Mistletoe - by Caroline Lee
A ghostly drummer turns out to be very much flesh and blood in this hilarious Yuletide romp featuring a second-chance romance, a mysterious little plant, and more than a few Henrys.
1326 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 5, 2020
About the author
Hildie McQueen
171 books812 followersBestselling author Hildie McQueen loves unusual situations and getting into interesting adventures, which is what her characters do as well. She writes romance because she is in love with love! Author of Romance in Highland historical, Western Historical and contemporary, she writes something every reader can enjoy.
Most days she can be found in her pajamas hiding from deliverymen while drinking tea from her David Gandy coffee mug. In the afternoons she browses the Internet for semi-nude men to post on Facebook.
Hildie's favorite past-times are romance conventions, traveling, shopping and reading.
She resides in beautiful small town Georgia with her super-hero husband Kurt, an unruly boy Chihuahua Pepito and a spoiled rotten girl Chiweenie named Lola.
Visit her website at www.hildiemcqueen.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HildieMcQueen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HildieMcQueen
Instagram: @HildieWrites
Most days she can be found in her pajamas hiding from deliverymen while drinking tea from her David Gandy coffee mug. In the afternoons she browses the Internet for semi-nude men to post on Facebook.
Hildie's favorite past-times are romance conventions, traveling, shopping and reading.
She resides in beautiful small town Georgia with her super-hero husband Kurt, an unruly boy Chihuahua Pepito and a spoiled rotten girl Chiweenie named Lola.
Visit her website at www.hildiemcqueen.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HildieMcQueen
Twitter: https://twitter.com/HildieMcQueen
Instagram: @HildieWrites
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October 3, 2020
Twelve days of Christmas in a Highlander's arms anthology
Release date 10/06/2020
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt Highland Dove - by Elizabeth Rose
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale - by Hildie McQueen
Brenna's Yuletide Song - by Cathy MacRae Ringing in Yule - by Sky Purington
Highlander's Christmas - by Mariah Stone Highland Swan - by Anna Markland
The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart - by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
The Laird's Midnight Dancer - by Ashe Barker
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay
The Piper - by Lily Baldwin
Scot Under the Mistletoe by Caroline Lee
𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧’𝙨 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 by 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙝 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚
The Scottish Highlands, 1308. Infamous mercenary Hamish Dunn betrayed a powerful clan leader and is now pursued by killers almost as ruthless as himself. After a deadly duel, a Highland faerie convinces him to travel to Carlisle for a job that will provide enough gold to escape and live in peace. Deidre Maxwell has a dangerous secret. She’s not a widow but a disowned noblewoman with an illegitimate daughter. After being cast aside by Hamish nine years ago, she’ll never let herself or her daughter, Maeve, be hurt again.
When Hamish visits the warden of the West English March, he finds more than the job he’s looking for. He finds the love of his life working as a wet nurse. How did she fall to this fate? And will she ever forgive him when she learns he has been hired to kill her father?
A Christmas romance and a child’s love could heal their wounded hearts and give Hamish and Deidre the family they both crave—if they can beat the corrupt warden at his own game. Highlander’s Christmas is a historical novella connected to the enthralling Called by a Highlander time travel romance series.
If you like reunion romances, secret babies, and dark alpha heroes, then you’ll devour Mariah Stone’s passionate tale of forbidden love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
While this tale is not a time travel romance, it is linked to the Called by a Highlander series, I remember Hamish from the first book, while he chooses the wrong path in Highlander’s Captive, he was a broken man, a lost soul and I felt very sorry for him.
I am glad the author decided to give him closure.
And there is no need to have read the other books to appreciate this one.
Hamish’s view of life was overthrown when he lost the only person who loved him, since he refused to get attached. Why despite his feelings for Deirdre, he left her behind. He is a man who ran away for commitment, scarred to be hurt if he may fail or loose.
Deirdre lost everything upon Hamish’s departure so many years ago, after struggling, she has found a position which permits her to feed and house her daughter. It also shattered her faith in people. Still she is resolved to offer the best she can to her child.
I am impressed by the author, she used Deirdre’s predicament and twisted it to offer her a situation I have never read a heroine to have before.
And while Hamish is a stubborn fellow, very attached to his ideas of loneliness, will a little girl’s sorrow move his heart?
4.5 stars for this moving read.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆’𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 by 𝗘𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘂𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗻𝘁
Upon the night a knife is plunged into her father's heart, headstrong Flora Dalreagh flees the forbidding warrior to whom she has been hastily wed. Entering his domain in the guise of a dairymaid, Flora never expects passion to burn as fiercely as her desire for revenge, but she soon discovers her secret is but one of many in the castle.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her determination to exact revenge cost her the love of her life ...
While I understand Flora’s sorrows, I immediately disagreed with her need to frame Ragnall without any proof other than her certainties.
Yet she is a young girl who came of age under duress. She left everything behind, making an oath to punish her father’s murderer. She rebuilt herself in a stronger self.
Yet she for too long stay blind to Ragnall’s true nature. So driven by her revenge, while she notices his kindness and is not immune to his charms, she can’t tear herself from her need for payback.
Ragnall is not his sire, whatever the rumors about his lineage, he wants to be a fair laird. Not one ruling by fear.
With his betrothal, he was uniting two strong clans for a better future with hope for his own future family but everything is thrown of balance when his soon-to-be father in law is murdered and his betrothed ran away.
Sure, he is quite a flirt when he meets again Flora, a bit insisting in his seducing but he is not one to force himself on a woman.
Their relationship is strained by her thirst of revenge, when himself is unsure of what to believe of her. Trust is something to be won, and both began on the wrong foot. Why their lack of faith might cost them more than they expect.
5 stars
𝗥𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲 by 𝗦𝗸𝘆 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗼𝗻
Tavish rescues his sworn enemy Nessa, and forbidden love ignites. Yet when their clans finally find peace, it’s too late. He must escort her to the man she’ll marry. Will five golden rings representing memories together remind them what’s at stake? Or will her promise to another end their future before it begins?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will these two lovers be able heal their wounds ...
This is my first read by this author, a much moving one.
A tale of nostalgia, of what has been and is lost while on their journey to their separate ways, they remember their time together at key moments, each marked by a ring adorning his blade.
Tavish and Nessa are two very stubborn characters, once the wound inflicted, they let their pride drives them away.
Nessa, while unable to go over her love for Tavish, knows she must let the past go. Even if it means marrying a man she does not love.
Tavish thought only to protect her when he pushed her back, alas now he could be free to offer for her, she is now engaged elsewhere.
Each in their own way has the well-being of the other always in mind. Why they take matter in hands, even if it means hurting them.
During their trip, they reopen festering wounds, but also get closure if it is really what they are set about.
Until it is close to being too late.
The author paints her a damaged but honorable hero with his deserved lady love.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the authors, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
Release date 10/06/2020
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt Highland Dove - by Elizabeth Rose
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale - by Hildie McQueen
Brenna's Yuletide Song - by Cathy MacRae Ringing in Yule - by Sky Purington
Highlander's Christmas - by Mariah Stone Highland Swan - by Anna Markland
The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart - by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
The Laird's Midnight Dancer - by Ashe Barker
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay
The Piper - by Lily Baldwin
Scot Under the Mistletoe by Caroline Lee
𝙃𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙡𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧’𝙨 𝘾𝙝𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙢𝙖𝙨 by 𝙈𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙝 𝙎𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙚
The Scottish Highlands, 1308. Infamous mercenary Hamish Dunn betrayed a powerful clan leader and is now pursued by killers almost as ruthless as himself. After a deadly duel, a Highland faerie convinces him to travel to Carlisle for a job that will provide enough gold to escape and live in peace. Deidre Maxwell has a dangerous secret. She’s not a widow but a disowned noblewoman with an illegitimate daughter. After being cast aside by Hamish nine years ago, she’ll never let herself or her daughter, Maeve, be hurt again.
When Hamish visits the warden of the West English March, he finds more than the job he’s looking for. He finds the love of his life working as a wet nurse. How did she fall to this fate? And will she ever forgive him when she learns he has been hired to kill her father?
A Christmas romance and a child’s love could heal their wounded hearts and give Hamish and Deidre the family they both crave—if they can beat the corrupt warden at his own game. Highlander’s Christmas is a historical novella connected to the enthralling Called by a Highlander time travel romance series.
If you like reunion romances, secret babies, and dark alpha heroes, then you’ll devour Mariah Stone’s passionate tale of forbidden love.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
While this tale is not a time travel romance, it is linked to the Called by a Highlander series, I remember Hamish from the first book, while he chooses the wrong path in Highlander’s Captive, he was a broken man, a lost soul and I felt very sorry for him.
I am glad the author decided to give him closure.
And there is no need to have read the other books to appreciate this one.
Hamish’s view of life was overthrown when he lost the only person who loved him, since he refused to get attached. Why despite his feelings for Deirdre, he left her behind. He is a man who ran away for commitment, scarred to be hurt if he may fail or loose.
Deirdre lost everything upon Hamish’s departure so many years ago, after struggling, she has found a position which permits her to feed and house her daughter. It also shattered her faith in people. Still she is resolved to offer the best she can to her child.
I am impressed by the author, she used Deirdre’s predicament and twisted it to offer her a situation I have never read a heroine to have before.
And while Hamish is a stubborn fellow, very attached to his ideas of loneliness, will a little girl’s sorrow move his heart?
4.5 stars for this moving read.
𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗟𝗮𝗱𝘆’𝘀 𝗚𝘂𝗶𝗱𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗮 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗿’𝘀 𝗛𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘁 by 𝗘𝗺𝗺𝗮𝗻𝘂𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲 𝗱𝗲 𝗠𝗮𝘂𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗮𝗻𝘁
Upon the night a knife is plunged into her father's heart, headstrong Flora Dalreagh flees the forbidding warrior to whom she has been hastily wed. Entering his domain in the guise of a dairymaid, Flora never expects passion to burn as fiercely as her desire for revenge, but she soon discovers her secret is but one of many in the castle.
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will her determination to exact revenge cost her the love of her life ...
While I understand Flora’s sorrows, I immediately disagreed with her need to frame Ragnall without any proof other than her certainties.
Yet she is a young girl who came of age under duress. She left everything behind, making an oath to punish her father’s murderer. She rebuilt herself in a stronger self.
Yet she for too long stay blind to Ragnall’s true nature. So driven by her revenge, while she notices his kindness and is not immune to his charms, she can’t tear herself from her need for payback.
Ragnall is not his sire, whatever the rumors about his lineage, he wants to be a fair laird. Not one ruling by fear.
With his betrothal, he was uniting two strong clans for a better future with hope for his own future family but everything is thrown of balance when his soon-to-be father in law is murdered and his betrothed ran away.
Sure, he is quite a flirt when he meets again Flora, a bit insisting in his seducing but he is not one to force himself on a woman.
Their relationship is strained by her thirst of revenge, when himself is unsure of what to believe of her. Trust is something to be won, and both began on the wrong foot. Why their lack of faith might cost them more than they expect.
5 stars
𝗥𝗶𝗻𝗴𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗶𝗻 𝗬𝘂𝗹𝗲 by 𝗦𝗸𝘆 𝗣𝘂𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴𝘁𝗼𝗻
Tavish rescues his sworn enemy Nessa, and forbidden love ignites. Yet when their clans finally find peace, it’s too late. He must escort her to the man she’ll marry. Will five golden rings representing memories together remind them what’s at stake? Or will her promise to another end their future before it begins?
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Will these two lovers be able heal their wounds ...
This is my first read by this author, a much moving one.
A tale of nostalgia, of what has been and is lost while on their journey to their separate ways, they remember their time together at key moments, each marked by a ring adorning his blade.
Tavish and Nessa are two very stubborn characters, once the wound inflicted, they let their pride drives them away.
Nessa, while unable to go over her love for Tavish, knows she must let the past go. Even if it means marrying a man she does not love.
Tavish thought only to protect her when he pushed her back, alas now he could be free to offer for her, she is now engaged elsewhere.
Each in their own way has the well-being of the other always in mind. Why they take matter in hands, even if it means hurting them.
During their trip, they reopen festering wounds, but also get closure if it is really what they are set about.
Until it is close to being too late.
The author paints her a damaged but honorable hero with his deserved lady love.
5 stars
I was granted an advance copy by the authors, here is my true and unbiased opinion.
https://www.facebook.com/429830134272...
November 22, 2023
2 stars. DNF.
I read the 1st 2 stories only and they involved war.
Sorry I don't seek a Christmas story for the war aspect.
I prefer some optimism during this special time of year.
I read the 1st 2 stories only and they involved war.
Sorry I don't seek a Christmas story for the war aspect.
I prefer some optimism during this special time of year.
September 30, 2020
I have had the pleasure of reading two of the books from this anthology and am very much looking forward to reading the rest. For now, here are the reviews for the books I have read...
HIGHLAND DOVE BY ELIZABETH ROSE is one of twelve stories in an anthology based on the song 12 days of Christmas. This is the story with two turtle doves.
Duncan MacLean and Mari Stewart are very much in love and are betrothed to be married at Hogmanay. They are both very much looking forward to their wedding. Before then, however, Duncan has to join his men in a fight against English soldiers who have crossed the border. As an early wedding gift, he gives Mari a pair of turtle doves. He has trained them like homing pigeons and says that once he is home they can send messages to each other that way until he can be with her again and they can get married.
After he leaves, the proverbial hits the fan. Mari is told that Duncan has died and is broken-hearted. In fact, he isn't dead, he has been imprisoned with his brother by the English and is trying his hardest to escape. The person who tells Mari that Duncan is dead says so to suit his purposes. He wants Mari for himself. He isn't pleased that she won't have anything to do with him despite believing Duncan is dead. He is determined to have her and his evilness knows no bounds to achieve that goal.
Will Duncan be able to escape his captors in time to save Mari and for them to have their happily ever after?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was fast-paced, exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. The love between Duncan and Mari was perfect and it was nice to have them already in a relationship at the start of the story rather than waiting for them to become a couple a few chapters into the book. The evil character in the book was so wicked, I wished I could jump into the book and do him an injury! That was taken care of though and was a real pleasure to read. There were some very funny scenes in the story too, especially ones involving Duncan's brother. It is great that it could make me want to cry, be angry, be amused and be elated. A perfect read.
THE PIPER BY LILY BALDWIN
Lady Cait Campbell suffered a personal tragedy that changed her from a vivacious trusting woman into a woman who is timid and who rarely leaves her room.
Laird Ewan MacLeod has suffered his own tragedy, during a battle he lost his sight. He isn't coming to terms with it and wants his younger brother, Rowan, to be the clan's laird because he doesn't believe he is fit to lead any more.
Cait's brother, Matthew was fostered for a time by the MacLeod's and although Cait was only 8 at the time she has fond memories of times that she and a 15-year-old Ewan spent together during family visits. Matthew, knowing that Ewan is going through a tough time invites him, his mother and Rowan for the Yule festivities. Ewan doesn't want to go but is persuaded to. Equally, Cait doesn't want to join the festivities but promises Matthew she will try to attend one meal.
Cait and Ewan are kindred spirits and it isn't long before they find themselves helping to heal each other's wounds. A beautiful romance builds between them and both realise that life isn't as bad anymore now that they have each other. The only problem is that Cait's insecurities make her misunderstand why Ewan still wants to give up being a Laird and stay with her family if they wed. Can he make her see that it isn't because of her? Can she make him see that he is more than able to stay the laird of his clan? Will they have their happy ending?
This was a short novella and yet it was packed with content. Being so short and having to have so much happen did make the story come across as a little rushed at times, but other than that it was just wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
HIGHLAND DOVE BY ELIZABETH ROSE is one of twelve stories in an anthology based on the song 12 days of Christmas. This is the story with two turtle doves.
Duncan MacLean and Mari Stewart are very much in love and are betrothed to be married at Hogmanay. They are both very much looking forward to their wedding. Before then, however, Duncan has to join his men in a fight against English soldiers who have crossed the border. As an early wedding gift, he gives Mari a pair of turtle doves. He has trained them like homing pigeons and says that once he is home they can send messages to each other that way until he can be with her again and they can get married.
After he leaves, the proverbial hits the fan. Mari is told that Duncan has died and is broken-hearted. In fact, he isn't dead, he has been imprisoned with his brother by the English and is trying his hardest to escape. The person who tells Mari that Duncan is dead says so to suit his purposes. He wants Mari for himself. He isn't pleased that she won't have anything to do with him despite believing Duncan is dead. He is determined to have her and his evilness knows no bounds to achieve that goal.
Will Duncan be able to escape his captors in time to save Mari and for them to have their happily ever after?
I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It was fast-paced, exciting and kept me on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. The love between Duncan and Mari was perfect and it was nice to have them already in a relationship at the start of the story rather than waiting for them to become a couple a few chapters into the book. The evil character in the book was so wicked, I wished I could jump into the book and do him an injury! That was taken care of though and was a real pleasure to read. There were some very funny scenes in the story too, especially ones involving Duncan's brother. It is great that it could make me want to cry, be angry, be amused and be elated. A perfect read.
THE PIPER BY LILY BALDWIN
Lady Cait Campbell suffered a personal tragedy that changed her from a vivacious trusting woman into a woman who is timid and who rarely leaves her room.
Laird Ewan MacLeod has suffered his own tragedy, during a battle he lost his sight. He isn't coming to terms with it and wants his younger brother, Rowan, to be the clan's laird because he doesn't believe he is fit to lead any more.
Cait's brother, Matthew was fostered for a time by the MacLeod's and although Cait was only 8 at the time she has fond memories of times that she and a 15-year-old Ewan spent together during family visits. Matthew, knowing that Ewan is going through a tough time invites him, his mother and Rowan for the Yule festivities. Ewan doesn't want to go but is persuaded to. Equally, Cait doesn't want to join the festivities but promises Matthew she will try to attend one meal.
Cait and Ewan are kindred spirits and it isn't long before they find themselves helping to heal each other's wounds. A beautiful romance builds between them and both realise that life isn't as bad anymore now that they have each other. The only problem is that Cait's insecurities make her misunderstand why Ewan still wants to give up being a Laird and stay with her family if they wed. Can he make her see that it isn't because of her? Can she make him see that he is more than able to stay the laird of his clan? Will they have their happy ending?
This was a short novella and yet it was packed with content. Being so short and having to have so much happen did make the story come across as a little rushed at times, but other than that it was just wonderful and I really enjoyed it.
October 2, 2020
I have only read one of the twelve stories in this anthology so far - Scot Under the Mistletoe by Caroline Lee, but will be reading the others being familiar with the other authors. This short story was a fun read, and part of the hilarious Hots for Scots series. Nessa Oliphant is the only legitimate child of the chief of the clan (the rest are by-blow sons). Brohn is the second-in-command to one of Nessa's brothers, Rocque. Despite being in love, Brohn doesn't feel worthy of a daughter of the chief and has watched as she has been betrothed to others. Loved how querky Nessa was and how these two just couldn't stay away from each other. Wonderful read for the Christmas season.
December 23, 2020
12 Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms is a collection of historical holiday novellas by some wonderful romance authors! This collection has a clever mix of emotional tales but also some more romantic-comedy tales. It is a pleasant mix that kept me engaged! This collection has a total of 12 stories:
1) Loving Her Highland Enemy – by Samantha Holt
2) Highland Dove – by Elizabeth Rose
3) The Kitchen Maid’s Tale – by Hildie McQueen
4) Brenna’s Yuletide Song – by Cathy MacRae
5) Ringing in Yule – by Sky Purington
6) Highlander’s Christmas – by Mariah Stone
7) Highland Swan – by Anna Markland
8) The Lady’s Guide to a Highlander’s Heart – by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
9) The Laird’s Midnight Dancer – by Ashe Barker
10) An Angel at the Highland Court – by Celeste Barclay
11) The Piper – by Lily Baldwin
12) Scot Under the Mistletoe – by Caroline Lee
This collection has some unforgettable characters and also a little more on the spicy side! A few of my favorite stories are Loving Her Highland Enemy, Brenna’s Yuletide Song, Highlander’s Christmas, and The Laird’s Midnight Dancer. Loving Her Highland Enemy starts with devastation as many are burned in a fire. The only surviving girl is adopted by the Laird to impersonate his daughter who pased away. This arrangement works best for their plans of revenge on the clan who destroyed their lives. The action and suspense will keep anyone on their toes! I felt like I read this story in less than an hour because I was hooked from the very first page. Brenna’s Yuletide Song is more of a lighthearted story that made me chuckle more than once. Brenna is the daughter of a French lord who is betrothed to a Highland Laird’s son. They could not be more opposite, but her voice will bring them together and even out of some awkward situations. Highlander’s Christmas is all about betrayal, survival, and forgiveness. I may have shed a tear or two at the end. Then finally The Laird’s Midnight Dancer brings a little magic to the collection. I love how this story focuses on how healing is not linear after a trauma.
If you love historical romance set in the Highlands then this collection is for you! There seemed to be a lot of similar names in each story which can be a little confusing but in all this collection is enchanting! I rate this 5 out of 5 stars.
1) Loving Her Highland Enemy – by Samantha Holt
2) Highland Dove – by Elizabeth Rose
3) The Kitchen Maid’s Tale – by Hildie McQueen
4) Brenna’s Yuletide Song – by Cathy MacRae
5) Ringing in Yule – by Sky Purington
6) Highlander’s Christmas – by Mariah Stone
7) Highland Swan – by Anna Markland
8) The Lady’s Guide to a Highlander’s Heart – by Emmanuelle de Maupassant
9) The Laird’s Midnight Dancer – by Ashe Barker
10) An Angel at the Highland Court – by Celeste Barclay
11) The Piper – by Lily Baldwin
12) Scot Under the Mistletoe – by Caroline Lee
This collection has some unforgettable characters and also a little more on the spicy side! A few of my favorite stories are Loving Her Highland Enemy, Brenna’s Yuletide Song, Highlander’s Christmas, and The Laird’s Midnight Dancer. Loving Her Highland Enemy starts with devastation as many are burned in a fire. The only surviving girl is adopted by the Laird to impersonate his daughter who pased away. This arrangement works best for their plans of revenge on the clan who destroyed their lives. The action and suspense will keep anyone on their toes! I felt like I read this story in less than an hour because I was hooked from the very first page. Brenna’s Yuletide Song is more of a lighthearted story that made me chuckle more than once. Brenna is the daughter of a French lord who is betrothed to a Highland Laird’s son. They could not be more opposite, but her voice will bring them together and even out of some awkward situations. Highlander’s Christmas is all about betrayal, survival, and forgiveness. I may have shed a tear or two at the end. Then finally The Laird’s Midnight Dancer brings a little magic to the collection. I love how this story focuses on how healing is not linear after a trauma.
If you love historical romance set in the Highlands then this collection is for you! There seemed to be a lot of similar names in each story which can be a little confusing but in all this collection is enchanting! I rate this 5 out of 5 stars.
October 25, 2020
Highlander's Christmas by Mariah Stone
A secret child. A pet gosling. And an unlikely couple who could get a second chance at love this Christmas—if he doesn’t kill her father.
Mariah Stone brings a wonderfully warm Christmas love story filled with magic. This is Hamish's story, we met him briefly in Book One of Called by a Highlander Series, Highlander's Captive and it’s so good to read his story. She always manages to weave the most delightful stories filled with charming and intriguing characters.
Hamish is a mercenary, a loner, a man hired out to the highest bidder seeking to fund his dream of owning his own land. He lives a single life feeling it impossible to love anyone with his life as it is. Deidre Maxwell is the daughter of The Laird of Maxwell.
I loved Deidre! She was such a fascinating young woman who could wield a sword, read and write, strong and capable. She fell in love with Hamish all those years ago, but before she could tell him of her secret (of which she was sure he’d marry her and they’d live happily ever after) Hamish told her it was over between them and left, certain that her father would marry her to a better man than he.
She’d fallen in love with Hamish nine years ago and as a result gave birth to a child, a daughter, a precious nine year old named Maeve. Now he’s back, on a mission to kill her father! But when he sees her he knows she’s the only one woman he had ever loved.
Fascinating, complex characters and evil villains come to life within the pages of this wonderful story, a second chance tale. I love the way Mariah skillfully weaves a tale with a great plot and unique resolutions to bring about a happily ever after. Hamish and Deidre had much to overcome and Maeve was such a lovely child. The gosling was a sweet bit of lagniappe.
Thank you Mariah for this beautiful tale of forgiveness, love and happily ever.
A secret child. A pet gosling. And an unlikely couple who could get a second chance at love this Christmas—if he doesn’t kill her father.
Mariah Stone brings a wonderfully warm Christmas love story filled with magic. This is Hamish's story, we met him briefly in Book One of Called by a Highlander Series, Highlander's Captive and it’s so good to read his story. She always manages to weave the most delightful stories filled with charming and intriguing characters.
Hamish is a mercenary, a loner, a man hired out to the highest bidder seeking to fund his dream of owning his own land. He lives a single life feeling it impossible to love anyone with his life as it is. Deidre Maxwell is the daughter of The Laird of Maxwell.
I loved Deidre! She was such a fascinating young woman who could wield a sword, read and write, strong and capable. She fell in love with Hamish all those years ago, but before she could tell him of her secret (of which she was sure he’d marry her and they’d live happily ever after) Hamish told her it was over between them and left, certain that her father would marry her to a better man than he.
She’d fallen in love with Hamish nine years ago and as a result gave birth to a child, a daughter, a precious nine year old named Maeve. Now he’s back, on a mission to kill her father! But when he sees her he knows she’s the only one woman he had ever loved.
Fascinating, complex characters and evil villains come to life within the pages of this wonderful story, a second chance tale. I love the way Mariah skillfully weaves a tale with a great plot and unique resolutions to bring about a happily ever after. Hamish and Deidre had much to overcome and Maeve was such a lovely child. The gosling was a sweet bit of lagniappe.
Thank you Mariah for this beautiful tale of forgiveness, love and happily ever.
October 4, 2020
I’m a sucker for anthologies, so far I’ve only read two but will update my review as I read the others
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt 5 Stars
Leana lost everything when she was eight, she was the only Sinclair to survive the fire that ravaged the clan’s castle, the laird & some of the men also survived as they had been away. Leana is now a young woman wants revenge. The Sinclair & MacLean clans are hoping for a marriage between Leana & Tavish, heir to the MacLean laird but Leana believes it was a MacLean who set the fire. A lovely story of revenge, secrets & enemies to lovers. A well written story that I read in a sitting, strong characters & a story that kept me glued to my kindle. I was engrossed from cover to cover
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay 5 wonderful stars
Ronan MacKinnon, a laird who fears making a mistake, and Abigail MacLeod a lady whose made one mistake after another. One of the best novellas I’ve read in a long time, I absolutely adored Ronan, talk about strong & silent! I’m also glad that Abigail has been redeemed. A wonderful story of wrong assumptions & an attraction that gets hotter & hotter, needless to say I read it in a sitting as I was totally swept away by the characters & the story
If the other ten novellas are as good as the two I read then this is an anthology to re read again & again & I'm in for a lovely treat.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read of these novellas but I will buying the book as soon as it’s available
Loving Her Highland Enemy - by Samantha Holt 5 Stars
Leana lost everything when she was eight, she was the only Sinclair to survive the fire that ravaged the clan’s castle, the laird & some of the men also survived as they had been away. Leana is now a young woman wants revenge. The Sinclair & MacLean clans are hoping for a marriage between Leana & Tavish, heir to the MacLean laird but Leana believes it was a MacLean who set the fire. A lovely story of revenge, secrets & enemies to lovers. A well written story that I read in a sitting, strong characters & a story that kept me glued to my kindle. I was engrossed from cover to cover
An Angel at the Highland Court - by Celeste Barclay 5 wonderful stars
Ronan MacKinnon, a laird who fears making a mistake, and Abigail MacLeod a lady whose made one mistake after another. One of the best novellas I’ve read in a long time, I absolutely adored Ronan, talk about strong & silent! I’m also glad that Abigail has been redeemed. A wonderful story of wrong assumptions & an attraction that gets hotter & hotter, needless to say I read it in a sitting as I was totally swept away by the characters & the story
If the other ten novellas are as good as the two I read then this is an anthology to re read again & again & I'm in for a lovely treat.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read of these novellas but I will buying the book as soon as it’s available
October 9, 2020
HIGHLAND SWAN:
Wonder and heartbreaking at the same time. Highland Swan by Anna Markland in the 12 Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms is so good I just couldn’t put it down. If the rest of this collection is half as good as Highland Swan than I just can’t wait to read it. This 1700 Jacobite rebellion against the English is so original and honest. Anna is truly one of the great authors of today. I was really emotional while reading this story and you know it’s great when you own emotions are at play. This story has a surgeon that just graduated, a caring uncle, a dying betrothed, running for their lives, a cruel father, kindness, guilt, amputation, reuniting with a son, doing all that you can to help someone and falling in love. So if you are wanting to go on an emotional rollercoaster ride I highly recommend you read this book.
HIGHLANDER'S CHRISTMAS:
Wonderful Read!! Highlander’s Christmas by Mariah Stone is one of the stories in the 12 Days Of Christmas In A Highlander’s Arms collection. I am so enjoying this collection and if you are a lover of highlanders as I am you are going to enjoy this book. Highlander’s Christmas is a tad on the sad side as our hero and heroine have had hard past. Mariah has a true talent for describing that I can picture it all in my mind. Her characters are wonderful and the story original. This story has children being abused, death, a father casting out his daughter, a hired mercenary, schemes, mistrust, evil, an abusive spouse but does it have love? You will just have to read to find out and I highly recommend you do.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Wonder and heartbreaking at the same time. Highland Swan by Anna Markland in the 12 Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms is so good I just couldn’t put it down. If the rest of this collection is half as good as Highland Swan than I just can’t wait to read it. This 1700 Jacobite rebellion against the English is so original and honest. Anna is truly one of the great authors of today. I was really emotional while reading this story and you know it’s great when you own emotions are at play. This story has a surgeon that just graduated, a caring uncle, a dying betrothed, running for their lives, a cruel father, kindness, guilt, amputation, reuniting with a son, doing all that you can to help someone and falling in love. So if you are wanting to go on an emotional rollercoaster ride I highly recommend you read this book.
HIGHLANDER'S CHRISTMAS:
Wonderful Read!! Highlander’s Christmas by Mariah Stone is one of the stories in the 12 Days Of Christmas In A Highlander’s Arms collection. I am so enjoying this collection and if you are a lover of highlanders as I am you are going to enjoy this book. Highlander’s Christmas is a tad on the sad side as our hero and heroine have had hard past. Mariah has a true talent for describing that I can picture it all in my mind. Her characters are wonderful and the story original. This story has children being abused, death, a father casting out his daughter, a hired mercenary, schemes, mistrust, evil, an abusive spouse but does it have love? You will just have to read to find out and I highly recommend you do.
***This book was gifted to me and I am voluntarily reviewing.
Read
November 18, 2021My review is for Lily Baldwin's and Anna Markland's stories in this collection for which I received ARCs. I will come back and offer a review of the others should I read this collection.
The Piper by Lily Baldwin review: (5 stars)
What a heartwarming story. Two people who view themselves as broken come together to mend each other. There's no greater healing agent than love and it surprises both Cait and Ewan in unexpected ways. Ewan recently lost his sight in battle but remembers Cait as a childhood friend. Cait had a traumatic experience where she has spent the last 8 years trying to overcome her fears. But put these two together as one they are unstoppable. Lovely story, enjoyed it immensely.
The Swan by Anna Markland review: (4 stars)
I've read several books by this author and have enjoyed them. She's a great historical author and a believer in love at first sight which is also the case with this story. But, being that it is Christmas, I just wish their first encounter would have drawn a more innocent attraction when they first met. It through me off that the first reaction was one of lust. With Christmas.... I just wished it more an attraction moving to fondness and romance before lustful thoughts got involved. Aside from that, it is a really good story. She always takes you back and weaves a story from a piece of history and writes in a way that will place right in the heart of it.
The Piper by Lily Baldwin review: (5 stars)
What a heartwarming story. Two people who view themselves as broken come together to mend each other. There's no greater healing agent than love and it surprises both Cait and Ewan in unexpected ways. Ewan recently lost his sight in battle but remembers Cait as a childhood friend. Cait had a traumatic experience where she has spent the last 8 years trying to overcome her fears. But put these two together as one they are unstoppable. Lovely story, enjoyed it immensely.
The Swan by Anna Markland review: (4 stars)
I've read several books by this author and have enjoyed them. She's a great historical author and a believer in love at first sight which is also the case with this story. But, being that it is Christmas, I just wish their first encounter would have drawn a more innocent attraction when they first met. It through me off that the first reaction was one of lust. With Christmas.... I just wished it more an attraction moving to fondness and romance before lustful thoughts got involved. Aside from that, it is a really good story. She always takes you back and weaves a story from a piece of history and writes in a way that will place right in the heart of it.
September 30, 2020
I read an ARC of Highland Dove, by Elizabeth Rose one of the books in the series. The story is based on the the second day of Christmas, where two turtle doves are given to your true love. Here being Duncan giving his betrothed Mari, as a wedding gift, before he goes off to fight the English. Turtle doves mate for life he tells her. If she needs to contact him before his return, use the doves as a messenger. This is only the beginning of the month before they are wed, but Eideard has other plans for both of them. He wants Mari for himself and will do anything, I mean anything to have her. Great story.
October 6, 2020
This review is for the second story I read in this collection. It is for Highlander's Christmas.
The following is for "Highlander's Christmas", I will post reviews for the other stories as I read them
This is Hamish's story, we met him in Book One of Called by a Highlander Series. Highlander's Captive.
Hamish is a loner he hires out to rich nobleman for money. He does things for them. Most are underhanded like stealing, blackmail, spying even killing . He is a very big strong man; most are afraid of him. But a few who know him well know he is hard on the outside but has a soft heart for children and women. He would never hurt either or allow others too.
When he was just a young lad the only person who he cared about who cared about him was left to die. He vowed then the only way not to be hurt again was to never let anyone close to him to never love other. Then you can't be hurt stay in control.
Deidre Maxwell is the daughter of The Laird of Maxwell. She is a very independent lady Her father has taught her things women are not allowed. She learned sword fighting, reading and writing. She sees no reason she can't do everything a man does.
When she meets Hamish, the attraction is strong for both of them. She has never met anyone as carefree as Hamish and he has
never seen a Lady able to do all she does. They spend much time alone and she see no reason she can't have everything she wants with him. When she goes to tell him her great secret, she is sure he will marry her and they will always be together.
Instead he turns from her leaving her alone and on her own. He cares for her but knows leaving is the only way to keep from being hurt again. He is sure her father will marry her to a man of her class and she will be fine.
Nine years later he is told of a job, and when checking one it he runs into Deidre. She is a wetnurse working for wealthy family.
She is working with her daughter to make whatever life they can.
Hamish is shocked by what he sees. Deidre wants nothing to do with him. Her secret is the only thing that keeps her going.
There are lots of secrets in this story. It is a fast read with much loss, drama, love, fear, mystery just about everything kind of emotion you can think of.
It is set at Christmas time and does have a happy ending just maybe not the one you think and by who.
I love how the feelings of both Hamish and Deidre grow and suffer to reach what each needs to be happy.
There is a great set of characters that help make it all work out. Hope you get a copy .
I received and ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
I read "The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart"
This is a very different story as there is an old curse and betrayal from men out for revenge and mistrust
and rumors. All of these causes both our hero and heroine must sorry and hurt and maybe death.
Flora Dalreagh is the daughter of Malcom Laird of Dunrannoch. It has been thought by his step-son Calder that they would marry and he would someday be the Laird. When he found out that she is to be handfasted to Ragnell, Laird of Balmore his is furious. Laird Ragnell has had a lot of rumors spread about him. There has been hints he is not really his father's son. His brother died and he was said to be blamed. Flora has never meet Ragnell, which for the time period is not unusual. Most marriages were to help the clan gain land or join two to make them stronger. She is young for a bride so her father has made Ragnell give her a year to stay at home and learn the lesson of a Chatelaine.
The cruse of Dalreagh is that when the bagpipes are heard walking the halls the Laird would perish an untimely death. After the handfasting Flora hears the pipes and finds her father dead.
In her young mind she knows Ragnell is guilty. So, she runs away with only her maid and best friend the only help leaving everything she knows.
There is many twists and turns in this fast pace story. What will happen when they meet again ?
Will he know her ? Does he think her dead ?Will the evil ones spoil their happiness ?
So much to find out. This book also shows us how the Guide books started.
I hope you give it a try; I don't want to say any more or it will ruin the story.
I hope to read more of the stories and will review them at that time.
I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is my opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
The following is for "Highlander's Christmas", I will post reviews for the other stories as I read them
This is Hamish's story, we met him in Book One of Called by a Highlander Series. Highlander's Captive.
Hamish is a loner he hires out to rich nobleman for money. He does things for them. Most are underhanded like stealing, blackmail, spying even killing . He is a very big strong man; most are afraid of him. But a few who know him well know he is hard on the outside but has a soft heart for children and women. He would never hurt either or allow others too.
When he was just a young lad the only person who he cared about who cared about him was left to die. He vowed then the only way not to be hurt again was to never let anyone close to him to never love other. Then you can't be hurt stay in control.
Deidre Maxwell is the daughter of The Laird of Maxwell. She is a very independent lady Her father has taught her things women are not allowed. She learned sword fighting, reading and writing. She sees no reason she can't do everything a man does.
When she meets Hamish, the attraction is strong for both of them. She has never met anyone as carefree as Hamish and he has
never seen a Lady able to do all she does. They spend much time alone and she see no reason she can't have everything she wants with him. When she goes to tell him her great secret, she is sure he will marry her and they will always be together.
Instead he turns from her leaving her alone and on her own. He cares for her but knows leaving is the only way to keep from being hurt again. He is sure her father will marry her to a man of her class and she will be fine.
Nine years later he is told of a job, and when checking one it he runs into Deidre. She is a wetnurse working for wealthy family.
She is working with her daughter to make whatever life they can.
Hamish is shocked by what he sees. Deidre wants nothing to do with him. Her secret is the only thing that keeps her going.
There are lots of secrets in this story. It is a fast read with much loss, drama, love, fear, mystery just about everything kind of emotion you can think of.
It is set at Christmas time and does have a happy ending just maybe not the one you think and by who.
I love how the feelings of both Hamish and Deidre grow and suffer to reach what each needs to be happy.
There is a great set of characters that help make it all work out. Hope you get a copy .
I received and ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is my honest opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
I read "The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart"
This is a very different story as there is an old curse and betrayal from men out for revenge and mistrust
and rumors. All of these causes both our hero and heroine must sorry and hurt and maybe death.
Flora Dalreagh is the daughter of Malcom Laird of Dunrannoch. It has been thought by his step-son Calder that they would marry and he would someday be the Laird. When he found out that she is to be handfasted to Ragnell, Laird of Balmore his is furious. Laird Ragnell has had a lot of rumors spread about him. There has been hints he is not really his father's son. His brother died and he was said to be blamed. Flora has never meet Ragnell, which for the time period is not unusual. Most marriages were to help the clan gain land or join two to make them stronger. She is young for a bride so her father has made Ragnell give her a year to stay at home and learn the lesson of a Chatelaine.
The cruse of Dalreagh is that when the bagpipes are heard walking the halls the Laird would perish an untimely death. After the handfasting Flora hears the pipes and finds her father dead.
In her young mind she knows Ragnell is guilty. So, she runs away with only her maid and best friend the only help leaving everything she knows.
There is many twists and turns in this fast pace story. What will happen when they meet again ?
Will he know her ? Does he think her dead ?Will the evil ones spoil their happiness ?
So much to find out. This book also shows us how the Guide books started.
I hope you give it a try; I don't want to say any more or it will ruin the story.
I hope to read more of the stories and will review them at that time.
I received an ARC from the author and want to thank her. This is my opinion and am voluntarily giving it.
October 7, 2020
The Christmas season and its wonders are at the forefront of Celeste Barclay’s An Angel at the Highland Court, a novella from the ‘Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander’s Arms’ anthology. The characters are some of her best yet. The female lead, Abigail MacLeod, has been in the background of some of the novels of The Highland Ladies series. Here she has been brought to full fruition. Abigail is trying to move on from mistakes she made in the past and feels unworthy of the attention of the male lead, Ronan MacKinnon. She’s snubbed by her fellow ladies-in-waiting but is okay with it. Ronan is misjudged by most everyone, but that’s just how he likes it. Snubbed and misjudged how does that add up? This is an interesting romance, and it held my attention throughout. There’s some explicit content, but this is still a wonderful novella. I give it 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it to readers of medieval romance.
I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
I received an advance copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review. The opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
October 4, 2020
Mariah Stone's story: good, full-fleshed second chance plot
So far I've only read The Highlander's Christmas novella by Mariah Stone, one of my go-to historical time travel romance authors. This one has no time travel. Both laird's daughter Deidre and roving Highland warrior Hamish are from Scotland in the medieval time of Braveheart and Robert the Bruce when raids and armed conflict dominated the border lands between England and Scotland. Stone is at ease with the location and time period as her current time travel series comes from this same world.
I was impressed with the fullness of the plot in such an economy of words. No vagaries or short-cuts to instalove. Both main characters have been through well-explained really desperate times and their second chance for love comes with some risks and a darling nine year-old named Maeve. It's a good tale of lonely people finding a way to a better future over the holidays.
I read an advance copy of the story provided by the author; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
So far I've only read The Highlander's Christmas novella by Mariah Stone, one of my go-to historical time travel romance authors. This one has no time travel. Both laird's daughter Deidre and roving Highland warrior Hamish are from Scotland in the medieval time of Braveheart and Robert the Bruce when raids and armed conflict dominated the border lands between England and Scotland. Stone is at ease with the location and time period as her current time travel series comes from this same world.
I was impressed with the fullness of the plot in such an economy of words. No vagaries or short-cuts to instalove. Both main characters have been through well-explained really desperate times and their second chance for love comes with some risks and a darling nine year-old named Maeve. It's a good tale of lonely people finding a way to a better future over the holidays.
I read an advance copy of the story provided by the author; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
October 7, 2020
The tale of Ragnall and Flora! Beautiful descriptive prose. Emmanuelle is a Mistress of developing a beautiful plot. Great main characters in a wonderful setting. A tale with enough twists and turns to keep the hardest critic happy. Some delicious scenes of love and mayhem. A great tale with the promise of more to come. Set in the highlands with a rolling, rollicking plot. A sweet and delicious tale of wonderful, believable characters. That wonderful sense of realism.
Five white hot pulsing shooting stars for Flora and Ragnall!☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
Five white hot pulsing shooting stars for Flora and Ragnall!☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️
October 1, 2020
I read Highland Swan by Anna Markland. I so enjoyed this book. It was a quick read and I loved the way this story was interwoven with history. My attention was captured immediately and I was held captive throughout the story. Anna Markland definitely provided an authentic Medieval experience.
October 8, 2020
Mariah Stone has given us another gem in Highlander's Christmas one of the tales in this compilation of Medieval romances. Highlander's Christmas is the story of Deirdre Maxwell, the Laird's daughter and Hamish a hardened mercenary who has sold his fighting skills many times over. Hamish does have a code that he lives by and refuses to be hired to hurt women or children. Hamish and Deirdre have an affair that is much more than just physical. She hoped it would end in marriage but he refused to let himself love after losing Fiona, his childhood love to death due to abuse and turning his heart cold to protect himself from the terrible pain of loss. Hamish leaves Dierdre, heartbroken. He comes back into her life years later when he is hired by her employer, George Tailer to kill her father. Hamish finds out that he not only walked out on the woman he was too stubborn to admit he loved but his unborn child. Deirdre is a strong woman who is cast out by her family but manages to survive and raise her daughter.
Hamish has been working and saving up to buy a little island so that he may continue his solitary life. This new knowledge threatens to upend his plan. Will Deirdre and Hamish be able to heal their old wounds and open their hearts? Moving story with well developed characters.
Celeste Barclay has given us another fun and engaging story in An Angel at the Highland Court, one in the anthology The Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander's Arms. Ronan is summoned by King Robert not knowing why but determined to make a good showing for himself and his clan. Abigail is a lady in waiting to the Queen who has not always been accepting and kind of those around her. They meet at court and open up to each other and together work through their perceived shortcomings. A heartfelt and touching story set around the Christmas Holidays. Their relationship heats up and we get to know them along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Hamish has been working and saving up to buy a little island so that he may continue his solitary life. This new knowledge threatens to upend his plan. Will Deirdre and Hamish be able to heal their old wounds and open their hearts? Moving story with well developed characters.
Celeste Barclay has given us another fun and engaging story in An Angel at the Highland Court, one in the anthology The Twelve Days of Christmas in a Highlander's Arms. Ronan is summoned by King Robert not knowing why but determined to make a good showing for himself and his clan. Abigail is a lady in waiting to the Queen who has not always been accepting and kind of those around her. They meet at court and open up to each other and together work through their perceived shortcomings. A heartfelt and touching story set around the Christmas Holidays. Their relationship heats up and we get to know them along the way.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 9, 2020
Two of my favorite things: an historic Scottish tale set in the highlands and Christmas! Although the medieval Scots did not celebrate Christmas as much as we do now, they had the twelve days of merriment, feasting and dancing. New Years Eve or Hogmanay was actually the biggest celebration back then. So with12 Highlands romances -what a wonderful way to make the miserable times we live in melt away! And they are available in Kindle Unlimited too - thanks!!
I especially love any books by Emmanuelle De Maupassant and The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart is another tale full of excitement, romance and steamy scenes. Her tales are so well written that you feel like you are there in 1166 amidst all the intrigue, superstition and drama of life in the highlands. This story is even more fun because it is the beginning of the "Lady's Guide" books that show up in subsequent stories. and the guide to the highlander's heart is full of angst and mystery as Flora is hand-fasted to the soon to be clan chief of the split clan and she believes that he killed her father to acquire the power even sooner. She plots her revenge but does not factor in her fickle heart. This is an intense and suspenseful tale, but so romantic in the end. Be sure to read this and all the great stories within this Yuletide anthology. This year we can all use some Christmas early!
I especially love any books by Emmanuelle De Maupassant and The Lady's Guide to a Highlander's Heart is another tale full of excitement, romance and steamy scenes. Her tales are so well written that you feel like you are there in 1166 amidst all the intrigue, superstition and drama of life in the highlands. This story is even more fun because it is the beginning of the "Lady's Guide" books that show up in subsequent stories. and the guide to the highlander's heart is full of angst and mystery as Flora is hand-fasted to the soon to be clan chief of the split clan and she believes that he killed her father to acquire the power even sooner. She plots her revenge but does not factor in her fickle heart. This is an intense and suspenseful tale, but so romantic in the end. Be sure to read this and all the great stories within this Yuletide anthology. This year we can all use some Christmas early!
October 1, 2020
A heart warming Christmas story you won't be able to put down. An Angel at the Highland
Court will hold you spellbound as it takes you
to the court of King Robert the Bruce were
Ronan meets Abigail. As they journey from court to Abigail's home for Christmastide their emotions start to grow and they find themselves admitting their love for one another in this riveting story filled with drama, adventure, sensual passion, angst and trials and tribulations. With amazing character chemistry that is believable and easy to relate to, from the first page and throughout I was totally captivated. Celeste Barclay has written an outstanding short story!
The opening scene will catch your attention and it will not let you go till the very end of Highlander's
Christmas as it comes to life as Hamish and Deidre journey to finding their love again. Try as they might they can't deny their smoldering passion, but the darkness of Hamish's youth has scarred him for his ability to love, he will never feel vulnerable to hurt again. Can Deidre fully trust Hamish to not break her heart again and leave her and their daughter behind? Mariah Stone has written a story that unfolds beautifully with drama, searing passion, betrayal, with amazing character chemistry that is believable and easy to relate to, from the first page and throughout I was totally captivated.
Court will hold you spellbound as it takes you
to the court of King Robert the Bruce were
Ronan meets Abigail. As they journey from court to Abigail's home for Christmastide their emotions start to grow and they find themselves admitting their love for one another in this riveting story filled with drama, adventure, sensual passion, angst and trials and tribulations. With amazing character chemistry that is believable and easy to relate to, from the first page and throughout I was totally captivated. Celeste Barclay has written an outstanding short story!
The opening scene will catch your attention and it will not let you go till the very end of Highlander's
Christmas as it comes to life as Hamish and Deidre journey to finding their love again. Try as they might they can't deny their smoldering passion, but the darkness of Hamish's youth has scarred him for his ability to love, he will never feel vulnerable to hurt again. Can Deidre fully trust Hamish to not break her heart again and leave her and their daughter behind? Mariah Stone has written a story that unfolds beautifully with drama, searing passion, betrayal, with amazing character chemistry that is believable and easy to relate to, from the first page and throughout I was totally captivated.
December 7, 2020
What’s better than a warm fire, a cup of hot cocoa, and an anthology filled with brawny Scottish heroes?
I love stories that give me an escape for a few hours of enjoyable reading time and these books fit the bill. Set in tumultuous Scotland, we’re treated to larger-than-life heroes and the incredibly brave, beautiful heroines who win their hearts.
I love the descriptive settings and hints of intrigue, along with life and death situations that bring our couples together and teach them love is the greatest gift of all.
The anthology concept is a story for each of the twelve days of Christmas, from an embroidered partridge and a decades long thirst for revenge, to a ghostly drummer, these stories are sure to entertain!
I love stories that give me an escape for a few hours of enjoyable reading time and these books fit the bill. Set in tumultuous Scotland, we’re treated to larger-than-life heroes and the incredibly brave, beautiful heroines who win their hearts.
I love the descriptive settings and hints of intrigue, along with life and death situations that bring our couples together and teach them love is the greatest gift of all.
The anthology concept is a story for each of the twelve days of Christmas, from an embroidered partridge and a decades long thirst for revenge, to a ghostly drummer, these stories are sure to entertain!
October 7, 2020
An Angel at the Highland Court: I don’t know how she does it. Each couple in this series is so different with their own set of issues. I think Abigail sure overcame her past and became a better person for it. I loved how Abigail and Ronan worked together, they didn’t keep secrets and talked their problems out. They had so much chemistry, it sizzled off the pages.
Highlander’s Christmas: Such a great story, I love Maeve she is so strong, even after all she had been through, she doesn’t let it get her down. Hamish thinks he knows what he wants out of life, but he couldn’t be more wrong as to what it actually is. Loved the suspense and surprises in this book. Excellent ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Highlander’s Christmas: Such a great story, I love Maeve she is so strong, even after all she had been through, she doesn’t let it get her down. Hamish thinks he knows what he wants out of life, but he couldn’t be more wrong as to what it actually is. Loved the suspense and surprises in this book. Excellent ending.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 4, 2020
Scott Under the Mistletoe – Caroline Lee
These quirky Scots are such fun to read about. We have Nessa, the only legitimate child of the Laird, and Brohn, the housekeeper’s son but also a warrior. Brohn is trying desperately but unsuccessfully to hold Nessa at bay. You know, I am too far below your rank crazy thinking. I loved the storytelling session and thought the ending was perfect. Nessa and Brohn come together for a very happily ever after. It was just too short…
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
These quirky Scots are such fun to read about. We have Nessa, the only legitimate child of the Laird, and Brohn, the housekeeper’s son but also a warrior. Brohn is trying desperately but unsuccessfully to hold Nessa at bay. You know, I am too far below your rank crazy thinking. I loved the storytelling session and thought the ending was perfect. Nessa and Brohn come together for a very happily ever after. It was just too short…
I received a complimentary copy from the author.
October 7, 2020
I had the pleasure of reading Highlander’s Christmas by Mariah Stone. I loved this story. Deidre and Hamish have a past that is complicated. When their paths cross years later, there are many challenges they encounter. I enjoyed reading the twists and turns the plot took as both Deidre and Hamish face both their individual demons and the slim chance for a future together. I also loved how this takes place at Christmas-a time for family togetherness and new beginnings. I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 2, 2020
I read Elizabeth Rose's "Highland Dove". I found it a roller coaster ride of excitement and fear from beginning to end. Starts off at a fast pace and never stops. Nail biting parts in almost every chapter. Evil Eideard will resort to anything to get what he wants, power as well as another mans fiancé. Hard to put down. Happy ending!
October 1, 2020
I read an ARC of Loving Her Highland Enemy by Samantha Holt. I really enjoyed this story about Tavish and Leana. Samantha Holt is one of my favorite historical romance authors, her stories always have a way of making me feel like I’m back during that time. I’m looking forward to reading some new authors to me I this anthology.
October 7, 2020
I was given four books to review for 12 days if Christmas in Highlanders Arms, by Emmanuelle re Maupassant Cathy Mac Rae, Sky Purington and Mariah Stone. I have given all the books a 5star rating,all so good in there own special way,I encourage readers to get these stories as they will be well pleased with the excellent stories from these authors.I could give you bits of each story but other reviews did that. I would get any books from these authors as I haven't ever been disappointed in their books.
October 6, 2020
Though I haven't read all of the stories in this anthology yet, I just have to post a review. For everyone looking forward to a slow or boring Christmas season, you **have** to make the time to read these! Your face will hurt from smiling but you will be so thankful for the instant cheer-me-up. Such fun!
For you Cathy MacRae readers, she totally wraps you up in fun and frolic, sweeping sighs and giggles, oh la la! Brenna's Yuletide Song also ties in very nicely with the other anthology stories but also Cathy MacRae's Hardy Heroine's series, too. Happily making your holidays all that much more cheerful!
For you Cathy MacRae readers, she totally wraps you up in fun and frolic, sweeping sighs and giggles, oh la la! Brenna's Yuletide Song also ties in very nicely with the other anthology stories but also Cathy MacRae's Hardy Heroine's series, too. Happily making your holidays all that much more cheerful!
February 15, 2021
Review is for An Angel at the Highland Court by Celeste Barclay.
Lady Abigail is a lady-in-waiting at Court and a much changed personality after seeing her older sister confined to a nunnery for her vindictive ways and a handfasting marriage go spectacularly wrong for herself. When she meets Ronan she soon realises that she is still too quick in making judgments on first acquaintance and berates herself. However, Ronan persuades her to let him court her.
A delightful story which feels fully complete even though the author intends to make it into a full length book in 2021.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Having originally read and reviewed an advanced copy of the above story from the author, I later went on to purchase my own copy. Here are my reviews of the other stories.
Loving her Highland Enemy 5* by Samantha Holt. Nessa wants revenge for the fire that took her mother and clan but feelings for Tavish weaken her resolve. A strong and absorbing tale.
Highland Dove 5* by Elizabeth Rose. Love, Treachery, Murder, Betrayal.
A cute novella, with true love winning out in the end. I read this story from an anthology that is no longer available to purchase.
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale 5* by Hildie McQueen. A wayward merchant’s daughter and the wayward younger son of a Laird are evenly matched in this lighthearted romance.
Brenna’s Yuletide Song 5* by Cathy Macrae. Arranged Marriage Novella.
Informed she is to marry an unknown highlander in three days and leave her home and family, Brenna is not surprisingly horrified. The day of their meeting she takes steps to give her groom a distaste of her but as she get to know him her feelings change.
Ringing in Yule 5* by Sky Purington. Tangled Web of Lies and Honour. Tavish saves Nessa’s life, falling for her at first sight only to find that their respective clans are enemies. Four years go past whilst they meet in secret, only for Tavish to break things off brutally. Now that their clans are reunited in peace, but he and Nessa are as far a part as ever because she is betrothed to another man.
Highlander’s Christmas 5* by Mariah Stone. A tale of heartbreak and betrayal. Nine long and hard years have passed since Deirdre last laid eyes on Hamish. He still owns her heart but she knows better than to trust him because at heart he is still a loner.
Highland Swan 4.5* by Anna Markland. New doctor Ambrose Pendray, looking forward to returning home for the Yuletide celebrations, is loathe instead to be attending wounded Jacobites at the behest of his uncle but much to his surprise the detour leads him to finding love.
The Lady’s Guide to a Highlander’s Heart 5* by Emmanuelle de Maupassant.
Young Flora Dalreagh is an obedient daughter and handfasts with the hardened warrior chosen by her father, though dark tales of his past make her fear him. When hours later she finds her beloved father brutally slain, she flees for her life. Two years later she infiltrates her husband’s castle bound on vengeance, only to find herself conflicted.
The Laird’s Midnight Dancer 4.5* by Ashe Barker. Pagan rites, jealousy, obsession and attempted murder!
The Piper 5* by Lily Baldwin. Two damaged souls find strength and love with each other. A delightful romance.
Scot Under the Mistletoe 4* by Caroline Lee. Nessa’s betrotheds, all seven of them, keep dying, one only two days after the contracts were signed and all before she has even met them. Whilst Nessa didn’t wish for them to die, she is not sad to be free of them, there is only one man for her but convincing him that he is worthy of the Laird’s daughter is another matter. The author cleverly entwined the other stories from the anthology, into after dinner tales.
Lady Abigail is a lady-in-waiting at Court and a much changed personality after seeing her older sister confined to a nunnery for her vindictive ways and a handfasting marriage go spectacularly wrong for herself. When she meets Ronan she soon realises that she is still too quick in making judgments on first acquaintance and berates herself. However, Ronan persuades her to let him court her.
A delightful story which feels fully complete even though the author intends to make it into a full length book in 2021.
I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Having originally read and reviewed an advanced copy of the above story from the author, I later went on to purchase my own copy. Here are my reviews of the other stories.
Loving her Highland Enemy 5* by Samantha Holt. Nessa wants revenge for the fire that took her mother and clan but feelings for Tavish weaken her resolve. A strong and absorbing tale.
Highland Dove 5* by Elizabeth Rose. Love, Treachery, Murder, Betrayal.
A cute novella, with true love winning out in the end. I read this story from an anthology that is no longer available to purchase.
The Kitchen Maid’s Tale 5* by Hildie McQueen. A wayward merchant’s daughter and the wayward younger son of a Laird are evenly matched in this lighthearted romance.
Brenna’s Yuletide Song 5* by Cathy Macrae. Arranged Marriage Novella.
Informed she is to marry an unknown highlander in three days and leave her home and family, Brenna is not surprisingly horrified. The day of their meeting she takes steps to give her groom a distaste of her but as she get to know him her feelings change.
Ringing in Yule 5* by Sky Purington. Tangled Web of Lies and Honour. Tavish saves Nessa’s life, falling for her at first sight only to find that their respective clans are enemies. Four years go past whilst they meet in secret, only for Tavish to break things off brutally. Now that their clans are reunited in peace, but he and Nessa are as far a part as ever because she is betrothed to another man.
Highlander’s Christmas 5* by Mariah Stone. A tale of heartbreak and betrayal. Nine long and hard years have passed since Deirdre last laid eyes on Hamish. He still owns her heart but she knows better than to trust him because at heart he is still a loner.
Highland Swan 4.5* by Anna Markland. New doctor Ambrose Pendray, looking forward to returning home for the Yuletide celebrations, is loathe instead to be attending wounded Jacobites at the behest of his uncle but much to his surprise the detour leads him to finding love.
The Lady’s Guide to a Highlander’s Heart 5* by Emmanuelle de Maupassant.
Young Flora Dalreagh is an obedient daughter and handfasts with the hardened warrior chosen by her father, though dark tales of his past make her fear him. When hours later she finds her beloved father brutally slain, she flees for her life. Two years later she infiltrates her husband’s castle bound on vengeance, only to find herself conflicted.
The Laird’s Midnight Dancer 4.5* by Ashe Barker. Pagan rites, jealousy, obsession and attempted murder!
The Piper 5* by Lily Baldwin. Two damaged souls find strength and love with each other. A delightful romance.
Scot Under the Mistletoe 4* by Caroline Lee. Nessa’s betrotheds, all seven of them, keep dying, one only two days after the contracts were signed and all before she has even met them. Whilst Nessa didn’t wish for them to die, she is not sad to be free of them, there is only one man for her but convincing him that he is worthy of the Laird’s daughter is another matter. The author cleverly entwined the other stories from the anthology, into after dinner tales.
October 8, 2020
Ringing In Yule
Sky Purington
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nessa and Tavish have found love. Love in eachother's arms, but it's never long enough. They spend once a year together in secret because their clans are sworn enemies. Then one year Tavish abruptly ends it in a not so nice way so Nessa decides to go on with her life and marry Alistair. Only when it's time to go to her betrothed she's shocked to find Tavish coming with her brothers men to bring her to Alistair. It seems that their clans have finally found peace and Tavish wants to see if there is still the remote chance that she may still want him. Sadly, she wants to go ahead and marry Alistair however when they get there they find out that Alistair is dead and everything starts to unravel for all of them and mayhem breaks loose.
Will Tavish and Nessa get through it alive or will they fight to the finish not telling eachother all of the secrets that should have been admitted right away?
Sky Purington brings us a sweet tale that takes place over Christmas time that will brighten up your day and leave you with a wistful smile on your face. There is constant action and it's so nice to see the characters get what they really wanted. It's perfect for a cold days read.
Highland Dove
Elizabeth Rose
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Duncan MacLean and Mari Stewart are betrothed. Duncan is about to leave for a battle, but before he goes he gives his bride to be a pair of doves. He tells her they are trained for bringing messages back and forth and that when they marry she can use them to send messages back home. As he walks away Mari has a bad feeling.
Something goes wrong in battle because they were given bad information and Duncan and his brother are both captured by the English. When nobody pays the ransom Duncan takes matters into his own hands and breaks them out of their prison.
When Duncan doesn't return and is feared dead Mari goes to his home to help his Mother out as his father has also been killed in a skirmish. Eideard is Duncan's cousin and that man is evil. He decides he wants to marry Mari and gives her a note saying her father agreed, but Mari doesn't believe it. Then an old gypsy woman helps her escape and takes her to a tavern where she knows Duncan will be. They find eachother and what happens next is pretty much chaos.
Will the two lovers only be able to see eachother from a far? Or will they rally the clan and fight for what is rightfully Duncans?
Elizabeth Rose is absolutely fabulous. She brings us a tale worthy of a Highland love story. This story is chalked full of action with old friends that come to join in the fray. It was wonderful to read and I am left with a satisfied smile.
The Piper
Lily Baldwin
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Cait Campbell and Laird Ewan MacLeod are both tortured souls, but in two very different ways. Cait relives the day the ferry she was on sank killing all on board except her over and over. She hears the screams and the roar of the water in her head as if it was happening again and again. She can't get away from it and the only way to calm herself is to give herself over to the music she plays. It has destroyed her life so much that she hardly ever leaves her apartments and even takes her meals by herself. Ewan is blind. He was injured in battle and lost his sight. His life is not the same either. He doesn't feel like a man and definitely not a warrior anymore. He even wants his brother to take over as chieftain and rule the clan because he doesn't believe in himself any longer. He feels as if he is only half the man he was.
Ewan can't believe that he let his family convince him to go to Cait's family's Castle for the holidays and it's on the very first night when Ewan feels very low that he hears the distant sounds of a lonely piper and it comforts him beyond belief. As Cait and Ewan begin to get to know eachother again they find that they have more in common then they thought possible and a tenacious love begins to grow. Then things go horribly wrong when Cait overhears Ewan asking her father for her hand in marriage. One thing leads to another and Ewan decides he wants to leave right away, but just as fast as he ran he comes back. Will Ewan stay and ask Caits forgiveness? Can he be the man he once was or is he forever changed? And will Cait take him back? Or will they forever be lost to eachother?
Lily Baldwin brings us an incredible tale that is filled with hurt, loss, love, and music. This story was so wonderful. I truly enjoyed it right from the start and was almost sad to see the end. I enjoyed how this amazing couple overcame the odds and turned the tides in their favor.
Brenna's Yuletide Song
Cathy MacRae
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brenna must marry Uilleam on Christmas Eve, but she has never met him and is definitely not happy about it. Uileam has not met Brenna and he is not happy about the marriage either.
Uileam feels like he's going to his funeral instead of dinner to meet his bride to be Brenna. He is very worried as Brenna's father is known as the wealthiest, most influential man in Dunbarton with his daughters being referred to as princesses for their extravagant ways and he feels there is no way that he can compete with that kind of lifestyle. I can't believe what Brenna does on the night she is supposed to meet her intended. It took alot of guts. After that things become rather hilarious at times. The antics that these two get up to willingly and unwillingly had me giggling like a school girl. Then all of a sudden after the tavern incident Brenna starts to realize that she feels safe with Uileam. Even his concern melts her heart. He is not the barbarian she thought he was and she is not the chatty ninny that he thought she was.
Their first kiss is utterly amazing and he promises her that there is much more then just kisses, but poor Brenna thinks that she is now no longer a virgin just from the kiss and that becomes quite the issue with Brenna's Mother thinking that he has comprised Brenna before the wedding.
Uileam gives Brenna a gift a gift so beautiful that even she is shocked. There is even a bit of a legend that goes with the gift, but that I will leave for you to find out. Even on their wedding day mayhem breaks out and it's quite comical. What comes after that is a love so pure that it will leave you with a hearty smile on your face.
Cathy McRae is totally amazing. This story not only warmed my heart it had me laughing as well. This is one of the best Christmas stories that I have ever read.
All in all I really enjoyed all three of the stories I read immensely and definitely give the stories an overall rating of 5 stars.
Sky Purington
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Nessa and Tavish have found love. Love in eachother's arms, but it's never long enough. They spend once a year together in secret because their clans are sworn enemies. Then one year Tavish abruptly ends it in a not so nice way so Nessa decides to go on with her life and marry Alistair. Only when it's time to go to her betrothed she's shocked to find Tavish coming with her brothers men to bring her to Alistair. It seems that their clans have finally found peace and Tavish wants to see if there is still the remote chance that she may still want him. Sadly, she wants to go ahead and marry Alistair however when they get there they find out that Alistair is dead and everything starts to unravel for all of them and mayhem breaks loose.
Will Tavish and Nessa get through it alive or will they fight to the finish not telling eachother all of the secrets that should have been admitted right away?
Sky Purington brings us a sweet tale that takes place over Christmas time that will brighten up your day and leave you with a wistful smile on your face. There is constant action and it's so nice to see the characters get what they really wanted. It's perfect for a cold days read.
Highland Dove
Elizabeth Rose
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Duncan MacLean and Mari Stewart are betrothed. Duncan is about to leave for a battle, but before he goes he gives his bride to be a pair of doves. He tells her they are trained for bringing messages back and forth and that when they marry she can use them to send messages back home. As he walks away Mari has a bad feeling.
Something goes wrong in battle because they were given bad information and Duncan and his brother are both captured by the English. When nobody pays the ransom Duncan takes matters into his own hands and breaks them out of their prison.
When Duncan doesn't return and is feared dead Mari goes to his home to help his Mother out as his father has also been killed in a skirmish. Eideard is Duncan's cousin and that man is evil. He decides he wants to marry Mari and gives her a note saying her father agreed, but Mari doesn't believe it. Then an old gypsy woman helps her escape and takes her to a tavern where she knows Duncan will be. They find eachother and what happens next is pretty much chaos.
Will the two lovers only be able to see eachother from a far? Or will they rally the clan and fight for what is rightfully Duncans?
Elizabeth Rose is absolutely fabulous. She brings us a tale worthy of a Highland love story. This story is chalked full of action with old friends that come to join in the fray. It was wonderful to read and I am left with a satisfied smile.
The Piper
Lily Baldwin
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Lady Cait Campbell and Laird Ewan MacLeod are both tortured souls, but in two very different ways. Cait relives the day the ferry she was on sank killing all on board except her over and over. She hears the screams and the roar of the water in her head as if it was happening again and again. She can't get away from it and the only way to calm herself is to give herself over to the music she plays. It has destroyed her life so much that she hardly ever leaves her apartments and even takes her meals by herself. Ewan is blind. He was injured in battle and lost his sight. His life is not the same either. He doesn't feel like a man and definitely not a warrior anymore. He even wants his brother to take over as chieftain and rule the clan because he doesn't believe in himself any longer. He feels as if he is only half the man he was.
Ewan can't believe that he let his family convince him to go to Cait's family's Castle for the holidays and it's on the very first night when Ewan feels very low that he hears the distant sounds of a lonely piper and it comforts him beyond belief. As Cait and Ewan begin to get to know eachother again they find that they have more in common then they thought possible and a tenacious love begins to grow. Then things go horribly wrong when Cait overhears Ewan asking her father for her hand in marriage. One thing leads to another and Ewan decides he wants to leave right away, but just as fast as he ran he comes back. Will Ewan stay and ask Caits forgiveness? Can he be the man he once was or is he forever changed? And will Cait take him back? Or will they forever be lost to eachother?
Lily Baldwin brings us an incredible tale that is filled with hurt, loss, love, and music. This story was so wonderful. I truly enjoyed it right from the start and was almost sad to see the end. I enjoyed how this amazing couple overcame the odds and turned the tides in their favor.
Brenna's Yuletide Song
Cathy MacRae
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Brenna must marry Uilleam on Christmas Eve, but she has never met him and is definitely not happy about it. Uileam has not met Brenna and he is not happy about the marriage either.
Uileam feels like he's going to his funeral instead of dinner to meet his bride to be Brenna. He is very worried as Brenna's father is known as the wealthiest, most influential man in Dunbarton with his daughters being referred to as princesses for their extravagant ways and he feels there is no way that he can compete with that kind of lifestyle. I can't believe what Brenna does on the night she is supposed to meet her intended. It took alot of guts. After that things become rather hilarious at times. The antics that these two get up to willingly and unwillingly had me giggling like a school girl. Then all of a sudden after the tavern incident Brenna starts to realize that she feels safe with Uileam. Even his concern melts her heart. He is not the barbarian she thought he was and she is not the chatty ninny that he thought she was.
Their first kiss is utterly amazing and he promises her that there is much more then just kisses, but poor Brenna thinks that she is now no longer a virgin just from the kiss and that becomes quite the issue with Brenna's Mother thinking that he has comprised Brenna before the wedding.
Uileam gives Brenna a gift a gift so beautiful that even she is shocked. There is even a bit of a legend that goes with the gift, but that I will leave for you to find out. Even on their wedding day mayhem breaks out and it's quite comical. What comes after that is a love so pure that it will leave you with a hearty smile on your face.
Cathy McRae is totally amazing. This story not only warmed my heart it had me laughing as well. This is one of the best Christmas stories that I have ever read.
All in all I really enjoyed all three of the stories I read immensely and definitely give the stories an overall rating of 5 stars.
January 1, 2021
4 Stars for Scot Under the Mistletoe by Caroline Lee
January 5, 2021
This review is for "Highland Dove" by Elizabeth Rose. I have not read the other eleven novellas in this set.
I love historical romances set in Scotland, but they're hit or miss for me. I give this one 3.5 stars because I enjoyed the plot and the main characters, but the dialogue was tedious to read with the heavy-handed use of brogue - I understand they're Scottish without having to interpret all of their speech written out phonetically - and I felt the main "problem" of the story was wrapped up too quickly at the end. I suppose not everyone wants drawn-out violence in a romance novella, but just a little more of a conflict would have made it more believable. The little bits of trivia surrounding Hogmanay were really interesting.
I received a free advance copy of Highland Dove from the author. My review is voluntary.
I love historical romances set in Scotland, but they're hit or miss for me. I give this one 3.5 stars because I enjoyed the plot and the main characters, but the dialogue was tedious to read with the heavy-handed use of brogue - I understand they're Scottish without having to interpret all of their speech written out phonetically - and I felt the main "problem" of the story was wrapped up too quickly at the end. I suppose not everyone wants drawn-out violence in a romance novella, but just a little more of a conflict would have made it more believable. The little bits of trivia surrounding Hogmanay were really interesting.
I received a free advance copy of Highland Dove from the author. My review is voluntary.
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