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The Highlands #4
Skies Over Caledonia
He’s a down-to-earth highland farmer. She’s the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they’re from different worlds, but that won’t stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience…
It’s been five years since Jared McCulloch’s grandfather Collum passed away and he inherited his farm in the Scottish Highlands. After his grandad saved him from his past life, Jared is determined to honor Collum’s legacy. But not only has a series of bad luck put him in danger of losing the farm, his estranged father is disputing the will. In a desperate situation, Jared realizes he’ll do just about anything to save the land.
Even marrying Allegra Howard, a woman he’s avoided at all costs.
A woman who tempts him beyond reason.
There’s only one place that makes Allegra Howard feel safe; one place that feeds her artist’s soul. Allegra wants to settle down in Scotland and expand her business. But there’s a hitch: immigration intends to return her to US soil.
Panicked, Allegra finds the one person just as desperate as she is. The same person she’s lusted after for years. In exchange for marrying her, she’ll invest financially in Jared McCulloch’s farm.
However, living together only forces them to acknowledge their searing mutual attraction. And with it comes an undeniable emotional connection Jared’s not sure he’s ready for.
Yet, blurring the lines of their arrangement is the least of his concerns when someone begins terrorizing the farm.
Allegra and Jared came together to save what matters most and now that might just be each other. And unless they can figure out which of their pasts has returned to torment them, they could lose their chance at a real future together...
It’s been five years since Jared McCulloch’s grandfather Collum passed away and he inherited his farm in the Scottish Highlands. After his grandad saved him from his past life, Jared is determined to honor Collum’s legacy. But not only has a series of bad luck put him in danger of losing the farm, his estranged father is disputing the will. In a desperate situation, Jared realizes he’ll do just about anything to save the land.
Even marrying Allegra Howard, a woman he’s avoided at all costs.
A woman who tempts him beyond reason.
There’s only one place that makes Allegra Howard feel safe; one place that feeds her artist’s soul. Allegra wants to settle down in Scotland and expand her business. But there’s a hitch: immigration intends to return her to US soil.
Panicked, Allegra finds the one person just as desperate as she is. The same person she’s lusted after for years. In exchange for marrying her, she’ll invest financially in Jared McCulloch’s farm.
However, living together only forces them to acknowledge their searing mutual attraction. And with it comes an undeniable emotional connection Jared’s not sure he’s ready for.
Yet, blurring the lines of their arrangement is the least of his concerns when someone begins terrorizing the farm.
Allegra and Jared came together to save what matters most and now that might just be each other. And unless they can figure out which of their pasts has returned to torment them, they could lose their chance at a real future together...
342 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 8, 2024
781 people are currently reading
12093 people want to read
About the author
Samantha Young
108 books28.3k followersSamantha is a New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author and a Goodreads Choice Awards Nominee. Samantha has written over 60 books and is published in 31 countries. She writes emotional and angsty romance, often set where she resides—in her beloved home country Scotland. Samantha splits her time between her family, writing and chasing after two very mischievous cavapoos.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 641 reviews
May 17, 2024
4 stars
returning to the enchanting setting of the Highlands didn’t fail on seducing me this time around. the book epitomized a perfectly balanced Samantha-Young-novel, weaving an intriguing suspense narrative with a tension-filled romance and heartwarming appearances of beloved characters. this rich tapestry was further enhanced by the ripple of family drama, making the story even more compelling.
I had been longing for a marriage of convenience storyline for quite some time, and to say that I devoured this one in a single day and absolutely loved it would be an euphemism. the main characters, coming from opposite ends of the spectrum, literally at the antipodes of each other —rich girl and farmer—added depth to the narrative. their arrangement was straightforward: she would provide him with all the necessary funds to improve the farm, and in return, she could reside in Scotland without the need for a visa.
Allegra, the female protagonist, pleasantly surprised me. unlike the self-destructive Hollywood princess portrayal attempted in previous books, she emerged as a remarkably likable character. as the narrative delved into her past and the darker aspects that shaped her, her impulsive and carefree anterior mistakes began to make sense. I grew to love her character dearly; she is undoubtedly one of my favorite heroines by this author.
Jared embodied the quintessential Samantha Young hero archetype: grumpy, with lingering attachment issues, and painted in a—subjectively—eye-rolling man-whore persona. he carried his own baggage, from grieving his lovable grandfather to keeping his addicted and greedy father at bay. fortunately, his character softened around Allegra, and with each passing chapter, he welcomed her more fully into his life. into his heart.
the romance initially simmered as a slow burn, gradually intensifying as the narrative thrust them into situations where they had to portray themselves as a couple in front of their families and engage in village activities together. their undeniable chemistry was beautifully intertwined with their angsty emotions, creating a captivating rhythm throughout the story. they were the perfect depiction of the notion of "opposites attract," despite sharing some striking similarities. overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and eagerly anticipate the next book in the series.
many thank to the author and Valentine PR for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
“the gaol agom ort.”
“I love you. But a better translation is ‘my love is upon you.’”
returning to the enchanting setting of the Highlands didn’t fail on seducing me this time around. the book epitomized a perfectly balanced Samantha-Young-novel, weaving an intriguing suspense narrative with a tension-filled romance and heartwarming appearances of beloved characters. this rich tapestry was further enhanced by the ripple of family drama, making the story even more compelling.
I had been longing for a marriage of convenience storyline for quite some time, and to say that I devoured this one in a single day and absolutely loved it would be an euphemism. the main characters, coming from opposite ends of the spectrum, literally at the antipodes of each other —rich girl and farmer—added depth to the narrative. their arrangement was straightforward: she would provide him with all the necessary funds to improve the farm, and in return, she could reside in Scotland without the need for a visa.
Allegra, the female protagonist, pleasantly surprised me. unlike the self-destructive Hollywood princess portrayal attempted in previous books, she emerged as a remarkably likable character. as the narrative delved into her past and the darker aspects that shaped her, her impulsive and carefree anterior mistakes began to make sense. I grew to love her character dearly; she is undoubtedly one of my favorite heroines by this author.
Jared embodied the quintessential Samantha Young hero archetype: grumpy, with lingering attachment issues, and painted in a—subjectively—eye-rolling man-whore persona. he carried his own baggage, from grieving his lovable grandfather to keeping his addicted and greedy father at bay. fortunately, his character softened around Allegra, and with each passing chapter, he welcomed her more fully into his life. into his heart.
the romance initially simmered as a slow burn, gradually intensifying as the narrative thrust them into situations where they had to portray themselves as a couple in front of their families and engage in village activities together. their undeniable chemistry was beautifully intertwined with their angsty emotions, creating a captivating rhythm throughout the story. they were the perfect depiction of the notion of "opposites attract," despite sharing some striking similarities. overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book and eagerly anticipate the next book in the series.
many thank to the author and Valentine PR for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2024
This was really fun brain candy.
Aria has a problem: she can no longer visit Scotland after visiting her sister too many times. If she leaves the country she won't be let back in. Jared also has a problem, his failing farm that his grandfather left him. And so Aria proposes a marriage of convenience, she gets a green card and she can use her money from her trust fund to fund the farm. But as time goes by their marriage begins to feel less and less like it's a fraud.
This was a lot of fun to read and I was able to turn my brain off and just enjoy it. I've always liked Aria and Jared as side characters so I was happy when they got their own book. While this is brain candy like I said before, it also packed a good emotional punch. Many deep topics were covered and they were all handled with care by the author. I honestly don't know what I am gonna do when I am done reading this series, I need to escape from reality somehow!
Aria has a problem: she can no longer visit Scotland after visiting her sister too many times. If she leaves the country she won't be let back in. Jared also has a problem, his failing farm that his grandfather left him. And so Aria proposes a marriage of convenience, she gets a green card and she can use her money from her trust fund to fund the farm. But as time goes by their marriage begins to feel less and less like it's a fraud.
This was a lot of fun to read and I was able to turn my brain off and just enjoy it. I've always liked Aria and Jared as side characters so I was happy when they got their own book. While this is brain candy like I said before, it also packed a good emotional punch. Many deep topics were covered and they were all handled with care by the author. I honestly don't know what I am gonna do when I am done reading this series, I need to escape from reality somehow!
Read
April 25, 2024Samantha Young brings all the small town feels with an atmospheric Scottish Highlands twist all her own. Teeming with delicious, slow burn tension and chemistry that crackles off the pages, Skies Over Caledonia is the perfect marriage of convenience romance with suspenseful turns that will keep you flipping the pages late into the night. A must-read for all small town romantic suspense fans!
April 28, 2024
Skies Over Caledonia was my first book by Samantha Young and it will not be my last! Brought to glorious life through the delightful voices of Stella Hunter and Shane East I was transported to the struggling farm in Scotland and I never wanted to leave. I got chills a few times from that brogue... damn...
Allegra needs help staying in Scotland and Jared begrudgingly needs capital to keep his grandfather's farm running. When she proposes a Marriage of Convenience with an end date that gets them both what they want, Jared is skeptical but doesn't see any other option.
Sure, she's tempting and feisty and like his chickens way too much, he can resist her... right?
Unlikely Jared, unlikely.
Especially when the lines inevitably start to blur and feelings bloom. They can only lie to themselves for so long. And once they start to open up to each other... resistance is futile.
This may have been a textbook case of these tropes, but that doesn't mean I loved it any less. I listened to this all in one sitting and I wish it had been longer.
Samantha Young has been recommended to me for years now, and I guess it's time I listen. But if you're like me and have never tried her before, I think you'll catch on well with this one. I also think that audio is well worth it. It made the whole story extra magical.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: harm to animals, stalking, suspense elements
*Thank you to Must Love Audio & Samantha Young for an ALC of this title.*
Allegra needs help staying in Scotland and Jared begrudgingly needs capital to keep his grandfather's farm running. When she proposes a Marriage of Convenience with an end date that gets them both what they want, Jared is skeptical but doesn't see any other option.
Sure, she's tempting and feisty and like his chickens way too much, he can resist her... right?
Unlikely Jared, unlikely.
Especially when the lines inevitably start to blur and feelings bloom. They can only lie to themselves for so long. And once they start to open up to each other... resistance is futile.
This may have been a textbook case of these tropes, but that doesn't mean I loved it any less. I listened to this all in one sitting and I wish it had been longer.
Samantha Young has been recommended to me for years now, and I guess it's time I listen. But if you're like me and have never tried her before, I think you'll catch on well with this one. I also think that audio is well worth it. It made the whole story extra magical.
5 Stars
3 on the spice scale
CW: harm to animals, stalking, suspense elements
*Thank you to Must Love Audio & Samantha Young for an ALC of this title.*
April 25, 2024
Skies Over Caledonia is the 4th standalone part of Samantha Young’s Highlands series and this book was SO GOOD! This is now tied with book 1 as my fav in the series! This is a small town, forced proximity, marriage of convenience, opposite side of the tracks romance.
Jared is a down-to-earth farmer in the Highlands, Allegra is the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty! Allegra’s sister Aria is the heroine of Among the Heather and Jared’s cousin Sarah is the heroine of Through the Glen. I loved all the connections to the previous books in the series and seeing a lot of those couples and families years later now!
The story kicks off with Allegra realizing if she leaves Scotland she won’t be able to get back in without a work visa, so she has a brilliant idea…a marriage of convenience with Jared! If you love “my wife” moments, this book is FILLED with them! Jared is top tier hero material and I loveddddd when he has his “F-it” moment and goes for it! 🔥 Allegra is an artist and we get some farming time and a bit of suspense as well. This was just so good, I was obsessed with their chemistry and tension!
I received an ALC, the audio is narrated by Shane East and Stella Hunter and I can’t not hear them as these characters now! The audio production was top notch! Highly recommend!
Jared is a down-to-earth farmer in the Highlands, Allegra is the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty! Allegra’s sister Aria is the heroine of Among the Heather and Jared’s cousin Sarah is the heroine of Through the Glen. I loved all the connections to the previous books in the series and seeing a lot of those couples and families years later now!
The story kicks off with Allegra realizing if she leaves Scotland she won’t be able to get back in without a work visa, so she has a brilliant idea…a marriage of convenience with Jared! If you love “my wife” moments, this book is FILLED with them! Jared is top tier hero material and I loveddddd when he has his “F-it” moment and goes for it! 🔥 Allegra is an artist and we get some farming time and a bit of suspense as well. This was just so good, I was obsessed with their chemistry and tension!
I received an ALC, the audio is narrated by Shane East and Stella Hunter and I can’t not hear them as these characters now! The audio production was top notch! Highly recommend!
May 10, 2024
5 Stars!
(ARC provided by author)
Allegra Howard is a talented American artist who grew up the child of a famous director and a supermodel. As the daughter of Hollywood royalty she had a reputation for being impulsive. After a traumatic few years she longed for peace. She never really fit in her current life, and the only place that felt like home was Scotland. The place was magical. She couldn't explain it, but it filled her soul and touched her heart. She loved to visit her big sister Aria who ran Ardnoch Estate, and it quickly became her safe place. She wasn't sure what her future held, but she'd fallen in love with the Highlands and was determined to find a way to stay. When her visa is up and they threaten to not let her return she's desperate to find a solution. She comes up with the perfect plan. A marriage of convenience to the guy she's crushed on for years.
Jared McCulloch is a farmer in Scotland. Five years ago his beloved grandfather passed away and he inherited his farm. He's done everything to honor his legacy and keep the farm going, but he's now in jeopardy of losing it all. His farm is in trouble, and he doesn't know how to fix things without more capital. Then the one woman he's tried to keep his distance from makes him an offer he can't refuse. It's the perfect solution to both their problems. She invests in his farm, and in return he will marry her so she can stay in Scotland.
After discovering their family members were friends, for years Jared has tried to steer clear of any complications with Allegra. That meant he ignored their mutaual attraction. Now they are sharing the same space and it's harder to avoid temptation. As lines get blurred and a spark turns into more, will a fake relationship become something real?
Skies Over Caledonia is book four in The Highlands Series by Samantha Young. It's an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, small town, forced proximity, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers romance about family, friendship, trust, loyalty and unexpected love. It's full of emotion, humor, passion, suspense, mystery and sizzling chemistry. I adore this world, and loved this couple together so much! This book had me hooked from start to finish. Just fantastic! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7CZXC6G?...
(ARC provided by author)
Allegra Howard is a talented American artist who grew up the child of a famous director and a supermodel. As the daughter of Hollywood royalty she had a reputation for being impulsive. After a traumatic few years she longed for peace. She never really fit in her current life, and the only place that felt like home was Scotland. The place was magical. She couldn't explain it, but it filled her soul and touched her heart. She loved to visit her big sister Aria who ran Ardnoch Estate, and it quickly became her safe place. She wasn't sure what her future held, but she'd fallen in love with the Highlands and was determined to find a way to stay. When her visa is up and they threaten to not let her return she's desperate to find a solution. She comes up with the perfect plan. A marriage of convenience to the guy she's crushed on for years.
Jared McCulloch is a farmer in Scotland. Five years ago his beloved grandfather passed away and he inherited his farm. He's done everything to honor his legacy and keep the farm going, but he's now in jeopardy of losing it all. His farm is in trouble, and he doesn't know how to fix things without more capital. Then the one woman he's tried to keep his distance from makes him an offer he can't refuse. It's the perfect solution to both their problems. She invests in his farm, and in return he will marry her so she can stay in Scotland.
After discovering their family members were friends, for years Jared has tried to steer clear of any complications with Allegra. That meant he ignored their mutaual attraction. Now they are sharing the same space and it's harder to avoid temptation. As lines get blurred and a spark turns into more, will a fake relationship become something real?
Skies Over Caledonia is book four in The Highlands Series by Samantha Young. It's an opposites attract, grumpy/sunshine, small town, forced proximity, marriage of convenience, friends to lovers romance about family, friendship, trust, loyalty and unexpected love. It's full of emotion, humor, passion, suspense, mystery and sizzling chemistry. I adore this world, and loved this couple together so much! This book had me hooked from start to finish. Just fantastic! <333
***NOW AVAILABLE***
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C7CZXC6G?...
May 16, 2024
The best story of the series so far, it's a quick read, I didn't even notice how fast the pages flew.
It has a marriage of convenience trope, which is one of my favorites.
It has a marriage of convenience trope, which is one of my favorites.
June 18, 2025
Skies Over Caledonia is romantic. Inwas swooning toward Allegra and Jared. Jared especially. His brooding demenour is cute.
I love Allegra. Despiter her emotional baggage, she is strong and sassy heroine. I am glad Miss Young creates her heroine not needy and immature.
Overall a joyous read.
4 stars
I love Allegra. Despiter her emotional baggage, she is strong and sassy heroine. I am glad Miss Young creates her heroine not needy and immature.
Overall a joyous read.
4 stars
May 22, 2024
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✨
"Skies over Caledonia" by Samantha Young brings together a highland farmer and the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty in a marriage of convenience. Jared McCulloch is desperate to save his Scottish Highlands farm, while Allegra Howard is facing deportation. They enter a marriage deal that seems purely transactional, but things quickly heat up, revealing deep-seated emotions and simmering attractions. As they navigate their complex feelings, a mysterious threat to the farm tests their newfound connection.
👫
Jared is a dedicated farmer with a past he wishes to honor, while Allegra is the misunderstood younger sister of the heroine from "Among the Heather." Allegra's glamorous background hides a more complex and endearing personality. Jared has been avoiding Allegra, but as they live together, he discovers the depth of her character and the vulnerability beneath her confident exterior.
❤️
The chemistry between Jared and Allegra is electric from the start. Their fake marriage turns into a real friendship, and their evolving relationship is filled with emotional intensity and sizzling attraction. The slow burn from fake couple to real lovers is handled beautifully, with moments that tug at your heartstrings and keep you turning the pages.
👥
The supporting cast adds depth and richness to the story. They play crucial roles in supporting the main characters and propelling the narrative forward. Whether it's friends, family, or antagonists, each character contributes to the development of the romance and the overall storyline.
✍️
Samantha Young's writing is engaging and immersive. Her descriptive prose brings the Scottish Highlands to life, making you feel like you're right there with Jared and Allegra. The pacing is perfect, with a balance of drama, romance, and suspense. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding to the authenticity of the characters' relationships.
⭐
"Skies over Caledonia" is a captivating romance that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The characters are complex, the romance is heart-wrenchingly beautiful, and the writing is top-notch. This book is a must-read for romance lovers and fans of Scottish settings. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon, this is it.
📣
#romancebooks #bookstagram #bookreview #SamanthaYoung #ScottishRomance #MarriageOfConvenience #HighlandLove #SkiesOverCaledonia #BookRecommendation #romancelovers #FictionalHighlands
💬 What’s your favorite marriage-of-convenience story? Let me know in the comments!
✨
"Skies over Caledonia" by Samantha Young brings together a highland farmer and the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty in a marriage of convenience. Jared McCulloch is desperate to save his Scottish Highlands farm, while Allegra Howard is facing deportation. They enter a marriage deal that seems purely transactional, but things quickly heat up, revealing deep-seated emotions and simmering attractions. As they navigate their complex feelings, a mysterious threat to the farm tests their newfound connection.
👫
Jared is a dedicated farmer with a past he wishes to honor, while Allegra is the misunderstood younger sister of the heroine from "Among the Heather." Allegra's glamorous background hides a more complex and endearing personality. Jared has been avoiding Allegra, but as they live together, he discovers the depth of her character and the vulnerability beneath her confident exterior.
❤️
The chemistry between Jared and Allegra is electric from the start. Their fake marriage turns into a real friendship, and their evolving relationship is filled with emotional intensity and sizzling attraction. The slow burn from fake couple to real lovers is handled beautifully, with moments that tug at your heartstrings and keep you turning the pages.
👥
The supporting cast adds depth and richness to the story. They play crucial roles in supporting the main characters and propelling the narrative forward. Whether it's friends, family, or antagonists, each character contributes to the development of the romance and the overall storyline.
✍️
Samantha Young's writing is engaging and immersive. Her descriptive prose brings the Scottish Highlands to life, making you feel like you're right there with Jared and Allegra. The pacing is perfect, with a balance of drama, romance, and suspense. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding to the authenticity of the characters' relationships.
⭐
"Skies over Caledonia" is a captivating romance that explores themes of love, sacrifice, and redemption. The characters are complex, the romance is heart-wrenchingly beautiful, and the writing is top-notch. This book is a must-read for romance lovers and fans of Scottish settings. If you're looking for a book that will make you laugh, cry, and swoon, this is it.
📣
#romancebooks #bookstagram #bookreview #SamanthaYoung #ScottishRomance #MarriageOfConvenience #HighlandLove #SkiesOverCaledonia #BookRecommendation #romancelovers #FictionalHighlands
💬 What’s your favorite marriage-of-convenience story? Let me know in the comments!
May 9, 2024
Allegra + Jared
We already met them both in the previous books.
Allegra is Aria's little sister and Jared is Sarah's farmer cousin.
Allegra came to Scotland five years ago and fell in love with everything. Her artist heart was happy for the first time in a really long while. But she still had to go back home to finish art school. And now it seems as if Scotland doesn't want her anymore - she won't be allowed back into the country because she's been here too often and they think she is living there illegally.
And Jared. He inherited his grandpa's farm and it's not going good. Bad weather and dying equipment is killing the farm. He needs money!
Maybe Allegra and Jared can help each other...
What might complicate things is that Allegra has been half in love with Jared for five years - since that first night they met!
══════════════════
The next book in Sam's Highland series!
And it was just as great as the previous books! So cute and sweet and sparky and funny and a bit heartbreaking and of course we also get some drama, danger and mystery.
I loved reading it.
There's not much you can say about a Sam Young book that hasn't been said before. I just love her books. I could read one every week for the rest of time!
Like I already said in my reviews for the other Highland and Adair books - I could totally imagine this as an amazing Netflix show. We already basically 'see' everything Sam writes about. She describes everything so beautifully. The people, the places... everything. I really need to see this on the screen!
From the covers to the final words ... these Scotland books are just beautiful!
SKIES OVER CALEDONIA was another beautiful book in the Highland Series!
Adorable and funny and sweet and dangerous and heartbreaking and sexy!
Run to your nearest bookdealer for your own JARED - this one is SO MINE!
Can't wait for the next book - we'll get the first Second generation Adair story! Eeep!
💜
💜
December 25, 2024
Gahhhh this book!? My favorite of the series and one of my new favorite books from Sam!
I loved the hero when we met him in a previous book, and I knew his story was going to be AMAZINGGGGG. Jared owns a farm and he's definitely grumpy, but he's so loyal to those he loves and will do anything to protect him. He might lose his farm, though, so he can't say no when Allegra needs to marry someone in order to stay in Scotland. She can offer him the money she needs, and marrying him allows her to stay close to her sister. She is shocked she starts falling in love with the slow farm life and starts falling for her husband...
There are plenty of "my wife" moments that had me swooning and I loved watching them fall in love!!
I loved the hero when we met him in a previous book, and I knew his story was going to be AMAZINGGGGG. Jared owns a farm and he's definitely grumpy, but he's so loyal to those he loves and will do anything to protect him. He might lose his farm, though, so he can't say no when Allegra needs to marry someone in order to stay in Scotland. She can offer him the money she needs, and marrying him allows her to stay close to her sister. She is shocked she starts falling in love with the slow farm life and starts falling for her husband...
There are plenty of "my wife" moments that had me swooning and I loved watching them fall in love!!
May 13, 2024
A donkey for the hero and a constant ‘uwu uwu, woe is me’ for the heroine doesn’t entertain me.
June 1, 2024
4.5 Stars
THE MY WIFE WAS MY WIFEINGGGG
omg the Scottish atmosphere. the forced proximity. I loved this book.
THE MY WIFE WAS MY WIFEINGGGG
omg the Scottish atmosphere. the forced proximity. I loved this book.
June 9, 2024
Family means everything to Jared and the farm his grandfather worked so hard for all of his life is important to him. He will do everything he can to honor his memory. He owes it to him to continue his legacy and that means keeping it in their family for the generations to come. Easier said that done though, the cost of running such a huge farm is really adding up and it leaves Jared in a really tricky financial position at the moment.
Allegra loves being in Scotland. It is a place that offers her peace and security. She loves to visit her sister Aria as often as she can but also because she draws inspiration from being in such a beautiful place. She is an artist and finds her creativity comes to life when she visits Ardnoch. The other thing that comes alive is her libido whenever she bumps into Jared McCulloch. When she first met him she was still a teenager but she is very much a woman now. A woman who desperately wants to stay living in Scotland.
When Allegra hears that things are a bit rough financially for Jared, she comes up with a brilliant idea that will give her the right to stay living in Scotland indefinitely and inject a bit of cash into his farm. They should get married. Seems simple right? However, convincing everyone they know and love that this is real will not be as easy as Allegra first thought:
Jared doesn’t like lying to his cousin Sarah
Jared has the hots for Allegra
Allegra has the hots for Jared
Someone is messing with the farm.
So yeah, just a few things to deal with, all at once.
Jared has been woven into the pages of not just this series but he also features in the Adair family stories. I’m so pleased that we finally had a chance to get to know him up close and personal. It was also great to peel back the layers of Allegra and see why they just make so much sense together.
Honestly, this series just keeps getting better!
Allegra loves being in Scotland. It is a place that offers her peace and security. She loves to visit her sister Aria as often as she can but also because she draws inspiration from being in such a beautiful place. She is an artist and finds her creativity comes to life when she visits Ardnoch. The other thing that comes alive is her libido whenever she bumps into Jared McCulloch. When she first met him she was still a teenager but she is very much a woman now. A woman who desperately wants to stay living in Scotland.
When Allegra hears that things are a bit rough financially for Jared, she comes up with a brilliant idea that will give her the right to stay living in Scotland indefinitely and inject a bit of cash into his farm. They should get married. Seems simple right? However, convincing everyone they know and love that this is real will not be as easy as Allegra first thought:
Jared doesn’t like lying to his cousin Sarah
Jared has the hots for Allegra
Allegra has the hots for Jared
Someone is messing with the farm.
So yeah, just a few things to deal with, all at once.
Jared has been woven into the pages of not just this series but he also features in the Adair family stories. I’m so pleased that we finally had a chance to get to know him up close and personal. It was also great to peel back the layers of Allegra and see why they just make so much sense together.
Honestly, this series just keeps getting better!
May 26, 2024
I've been seeing a lot of people raving about this installment in The Highlands series, so I had high hopes going in. I've read every book in this series so far and enjoyed all of them, so while the fake relationship trope is not one that I am typically interested in, I didn't hesitate to pick this one up. Let me just say, the marriage of convenience that was being sold as a real love match to their friends/family/townspeople was not fooling a soul from the second they announced it. These two went from never speaking to married, and this was immediately after Allegra told her sister that she was desperate to find a way to stay in the country. Not to mention, he was casually sleeping with a woman from town and it was common knowledge. Of course everyone is going to put two and two together to make four. Do they deny that it's a mutually beneficial arrangement? Yes...but their loved ones agree to disagree and play along. The townspeople are more convinced, but they don't really go out of their way to prove anything to them either. So there isn't really that fake relationship act in public that you typically see with this trope which would force intimacy and build physical and emotional tension between the couple. Personally, I'm not a fan of that public playacting anyway, so it didn't bother me, but I could see where it might leave something to be desired for others.
There was supposed to be built-in tension because we are shown a flashback of their first meeting. They were both instantly attracted and had "a moment" together that almost led to a hook-up. The intense attraction never went away, but Jared pushed her away after finding out her association with his inner circle and stayed far away since. After they married, he was very hot and cold with her because he was adamant that he would keep a firm distance both emotionally and physically which he couldn't consistently keep it up. He's a relationship phobe who is scared he and his fake wife will catch feelings for each other. His distance was off-putting to me, and I didn't feel there was enough there to feel any genuine tension between them. Their first meeting was superficial, they never interacted before marriage, and after marriage, their emotional connection was weak. It was more a case of being told rather than shown. I know a lot of people will disagree with me on that, but it had a lack of authenticity for me.
In the beginning of the book, Jared decides he needs to break up with Sorcha, the woman he's been sleeping with for six months because she called him after her dog had a medical emergency. He tells his farmhand: "I'm not such a bastard I'd dump her the day her dog almost died." But he IS about to dump her for trying to lean on him for emotional support when her dog almost died. Maybe not the same day, but what difference does it make? It's a dick move. In the last 15%, he royally screws up with Allegra. He treats her very badly because of an outsider playing on his fear of their difference in backgrounds. He doesn't communicate his fear with her, instead, he leads her on physically and immediately goes cold on her again. He instantly knew he screwed up, but this was seriously brushed under the rug afterwards and that didn't fly with me.
I don't know, I just can't easily forgive this stuff from heroes when it's caused by fear of emotional connection. Allegra has been traumatized by her parents' marriage and hasn't been able to share her emotional distress with anyone. Hold up their parents' marriages side-by-side and they are equally dysfunctional failures. Allegra has endured physical abuse, character assassination, and emotional gaslighting from her parents, and she still manages to be open and respectful to Jared. I know it seems like I hated Jared and that's not the case. They had their sweet moments, and he did stand up for his wife when it truly counted. But without the sufficient emotional connection development, their relationship felt lacking at a deeper level. I just couldn't feel the same excitement that others seem to be having, but I am mostly in the minority. If you've read all the other books in the series, this is still worth the read, but personally it's my least favorite. It was just okay for me, hence the two star rating.
There was supposed to be built-in tension because we are shown a flashback of their first meeting. They were both instantly attracted and had "a moment" together that almost led to a hook-up. The intense attraction never went away, but Jared pushed her away after finding out her association with his inner circle and stayed far away since. After they married, he was very hot and cold with her because he was adamant that he would keep a firm distance both emotionally and physically which he couldn't consistently keep it up. He's a relationship phobe who is scared he and his fake wife will catch feelings for each other. His distance was off-putting to me, and I didn't feel there was enough there to feel any genuine tension between them. Their first meeting was superficial, they never interacted before marriage, and after marriage, their emotional connection was weak. It was more a case of being told rather than shown. I know a lot of people will disagree with me on that, but it had a lack of authenticity for me.
In the beginning of the book, Jared decides he needs to break up with Sorcha, the woman he's been sleeping with for six months because she called him after her dog had a medical emergency. He tells his farmhand: "I'm not such a bastard I'd dump her the day her dog almost died." But he IS about to dump her for trying to lean on him for emotional support when her dog almost died. Maybe not the same day, but what difference does it make? It's a dick move. In the last 15%, he royally screws up with Allegra. He treats her very badly because of an outsider playing on his fear of their difference in backgrounds. He doesn't communicate his fear with her, instead, he leads her on physically and immediately goes cold on her again. He instantly knew he screwed up, but this was seriously brushed under the rug afterwards and that didn't fly with me.
I don't know, I just can't easily forgive this stuff from heroes when it's caused by fear of emotional connection. Allegra has been traumatized by her parents' marriage and hasn't been able to share her emotional distress with anyone. Hold up their parents' marriages side-by-side and they are equally dysfunctional failures. Allegra has endured physical abuse, character assassination, and emotional gaslighting from her parents, and she still manages to be open and respectful to Jared. I know it seems like I hated Jared and that's not the case. They had their sweet moments, and he did stand up for his wife when it truly counted. But without the sufficient emotional connection development, their relationship felt lacking at a deeper level. I just couldn't feel the same excitement that others seem to be having, but I am mostly in the minority. If you've read all the other books in the series, this is still worth the read, but personally it's my least favorite. It was just okay for me, hence the two star rating.
April 29, 2024
ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖩𝖺𝗋𝖾𝖽
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖠𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗀𝗋𝖺
5 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘉𝘺 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠...𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩!
Allegra, is seen as reckless and impulsive, but her decisions are based on two people, who put their needs before hers. And then her downfall began. But after a tragic incident, she puts her life together and when she visits her sister in Scotland, she falls in love with the country. Every choice she made led her back to Scotland, and when that is threatened, the fear of never returning, leads her to making one hell of a deal.
Jared, he didn't have the best upbringing and he started joining the wrong crowd, at 21 he got the biggest wake up call, and one phone call to his grandfather brought him 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚. The farm is his life, his everything. But things haven't been going well for the farm, and his on the brink of losing it, but he isn't losing it without a fight...which leads him to making a deal with Allegra.
...holy hell you guys this book was everything. I swear this series keeps on getting better with each book.
Allegra and Jared had so much to work through, the emotions, the pushing and pulling, the will they just freaking kiss already parts in this book 😍...Allegra has been intrigued with Jared from day one, but he believed she was off limits, so regardless of how he felt, he always kept his distance.
But now, they are married and even though it has a timeline Allegra is trying to make the best of it, and 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙡 Jared isn't making it very easy. But after some advice from Theo, he decides to form a friendship with her, and the development of it was just... perfection ♥️
The jealousy and protectiveness was so good...and the "𝙛*** 𝙞𝙩" moment...so 🔥
𝘼𝙣𝙙 let's not forget all the "𝙢𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚" ones too.
...the spicy scenes 🥵🌶️
....this book... *𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙛𝙨 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨* 💋
Loved catching up with the previous couples ♥️
...the next book...can't wait!!!♥️
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝖮𝗄𝖺𝗒, 𝖨 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖼𝖺𝗍𝖼𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗎𝗉 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝗈𝗎𝗌 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌.
𝖧𝗎𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋 & 𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗈 😍♥️😍
𝖢𝖺𝗅𝗅𝗂𝖾 & 𝖫𝖾𝗐𝗂𝗌 ♥️♥️♥️
𝖠𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗀𝗋𝖺'𝗌 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗌...𝗀𝗈𝗌𝗁 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇 𝖻𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖾𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄, 𝖨 𝖽𝗂𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗀𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 🙈
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🚜🚜🚜🚜🚜
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🎨🎨🎨🎨🎨
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵🌶️ 🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧 💧
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖩𝖺𝗋𝖾𝖽
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖠𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗀𝗋𝖺
5 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧
𝘚𝘬𝘪𝘦𝘴 𝘖𝘷𝘦𝘳 𝘊𝘢𝘭𝘦𝘥𝘰𝘯𝘪𝘢 𝘉𝘺 𝘚𝘢𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘩𝘢 𝘠𝘰𝘶𝘯𝘨
𝙏𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠...𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙨𝙤 𝙙𝙖𝙢𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙛𝙚𝙘𝙩!
Allegra, is seen as reckless and impulsive, but her decisions are based on two people, who put their needs before hers. And then her downfall began. But after a tragic incident, she puts her life together and when she visits her sister in Scotland, she falls in love with the country. Every choice she made led her back to Scotland, and when that is threatened, the fear of never returning, leads her to making one hell of a deal.
Jared, he didn't have the best upbringing and he started joining the wrong crowd, at 21 he got the biggest wake up call, and one phone call to his grandfather brought him 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚. The farm is his life, his everything. But things haven't been going well for the farm, and his on the brink of losing it, but he isn't losing it without a fight...which leads him to making a deal with Allegra.
...holy hell you guys this book was everything. I swear this series keeps on getting better with each book.
Allegra and Jared had so much to work through, the emotions, the pushing and pulling, the will they just freaking kiss already parts in this book 😍...Allegra has been intrigued with Jared from day one, but he believed she was off limits, so regardless of how he felt, he always kept his distance.
But now, they are married and even though it has a timeline Allegra is trying to make the best of it, and 𝙬𝙚𝙡𝙡 Jared isn't making it very easy. But after some advice from Theo, he decides to form a friendship with her, and the development of it was just... perfection ♥️
The jealousy and protectiveness was so good...and the "𝙛*** 𝙞𝙩" moment...so 🔥
𝘼𝙣𝙙 let's not forget all the "𝙢𝙮 𝙬𝙞𝙛𝙚" ones too.
...the spicy scenes 🥵🌶️
....this book... *𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙛𝙨 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨* 💋
Loved catching up with the previous couples ♥️
...the next book...can't wait!!!♥️
𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬
𝖮𝗄𝖺𝗒, 𝖨 𝗅𝗈𝗏𝖾𝖽 𝖼𝖺𝗍𝖼𝗁𝗂𝗇𝗀 𝗎𝗉 𝗐𝗂𝗍𝗁 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝗉𝗋𝖾𝗏𝗂𝗈𝗎𝗌 𝖼𝗁𝖺𝗋𝖺𝖼𝗍𝖾𝗋𝗌.
𝖧𝗎𝗇𝗍𝖾𝗋 & 𝖳𝗁𝖾𝗈 😍♥️😍
𝖢𝖺𝗅𝗅𝗂𝖾 & 𝖫𝖾𝗐𝗂𝗌 ♥️♥️♥️
𝖠𝗅𝗅𝖾𝗀𝗋𝖺'𝗌 𝗉𝖺𝗋𝖾𝗇𝗍𝗌...𝗀𝗈𝗌𝗁 𝖾𝗏𝖾𝗇 𝖻𝗒 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖾𝗇𝖽 𝗈𝖿 𝗍𝗁𝖾 𝖻𝗈𝗈𝗄, 𝖨 𝖽𝗂𝖽 𝗇𝗈𝗍 𝖿𝗈𝗋𝗀𝗂𝗏𝖾 𝗍𝗁𝖾𝗆 🙈
𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🚜🚜🚜🚜🚜
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 🎨🎨🎨🎨🎨
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵🌶️🥵🌶️ 🥵
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧 💧
May 9, 2024
5 stars
The fourth standalone in the Highlands series, this is a marriage of convenience, forced proximity, opposites attract romance that is full of chemistry, and it’s such an amazing read! I loved the characters, I loved their love story, and I loved this book so much!
You can read this as a standalone, but both Jared and Allegra have already been introduced in the series. Jared is the cousin of Sarah from Through the Glen, and Allegra is the younger sister of Aria from Among the Heather. Both are a little bit understood, I loved getting to truly know them, and enjoyed their fabulous dynamic.
Jared and Allegra met in the local bar of Ardnoch in the Scottish Highlands five years ago. They hit it off, and though they almost hooked up, it didn’t happen for them that night. Since then, Allegra has been travelling the world, returning to Ardnoch whenever she can because it’s where she feels happy and at peace, and it’s where she wants to settle. Unfortunately, Scottish Immigration are keeping a close eye and threatening to send her back to the US, so she comes up with a plan to stay. She knows that Jared’s farm is struggling, and coming from a wealthy family, she offers to share her fortune with him if he marries her. Jared is a quiet, reclusive, and broody guy who doesn’t have the time or interest for a relationship, but he’s desperate to save the farm left to him by his beloved grandfather, and he agrees to Allegra’s plan.
There’s a fantastic dynamic between these two, and from the very moment, sparks are flying.
There is attraction, but Jared is unhappy about it which gets his defences up. But as they start to get used to each other and learn to live together, they become friendly, they start to push boundaries, and in the most epic “fuck it” moment ever, everything changes.
OMG, the sexual tension between these two is fantastic! I was feeling it with them, and couldn’t wait for them to give in to it all. It’s hot and steamy, and so much fun as they cave to all of their mad lust for each other. And though they promised they’d keep it simple and not get emotional about it, of course feelings develop
It’s not all smooth sailing, and they do have some issues to work through, but it’s not an angsty read at all, and I loved watching these two figure out their feelings and where they stand with each other.
Allegra’s bright spirit is so endearing. Her life hasn’t been easy, and she has some difficult family dynamics to navigate, and my heart hurt for her. I enjoyed watching her past come to light, seeing her interact with her family, find the strength to confront their issues, and bravely fight for the life that she wants.
And Jared is right there supporting her through it all. Jared is the quiet type, and isn’t one to speak about his feelings, but his sweet gestures, his quiet support, his protectiveness over Allegra and constant use of the words “my wife” are ovary melting!
This is such a gorgeous read, with a little bit of suspense added which brings some intensity without overwhelming the romance. I loved seeing the characters previous books, and Jared and Allegra’s love story owned my heart.
Absolutely beautiful. 5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
The fourth standalone in the Highlands series, this is a marriage of convenience, forced proximity, opposites attract romance that is full of chemistry, and it’s such an amazing read! I loved the characters, I loved their love story, and I loved this book so much!
You can read this as a standalone, but both Jared and Allegra have already been introduced in the series. Jared is the cousin of Sarah from Through the Glen, and Allegra is the younger sister of Aria from Among the Heather. Both are a little bit understood, I loved getting to truly know them, and enjoyed their fabulous dynamic.
Jared and Allegra met in the local bar of Ardnoch in the Scottish Highlands five years ago. They hit it off, and though they almost hooked up, it didn’t happen for them that night. Since then, Allegra has been travelling the world, returning to Ardnoch whenever she can because it’s where she feels happy and at peace, and it’s where she wants to settle. Unfortunately, Scottish Immigration are keeping a close eye and threatening to send her back to the US, so she comes up with a plan to stay. She knows that Jared’s farm is struggling, and coming from a wealthy family, she offers to share her fortune with him if he marries her. Jared is a quiet, reclusive, and broody guy who doesn’t have the time or interest for a relationship, but he’s desperate to save the farm left to him by his beloved grandfather, and he agrees to Allegra’s plan.
There’s a fantastic dynamic between these two, and from the very moment, sparks are flying.
She made me feel something more than attraction. I couldn’t explain it. Had never been able to figure out that spark between us from the moment she sat down next to me in the pub five years ago.
I didn’t want to figure it out. I wanted to run from it.
Instead, I’d bloody married her.
There is attraction, but Jared is unhappy about it which gets his defences up. But as they start to get used to each other and learn to live together, they become friendly, they start to push boundaries, and in the most epic “fuck it” moment ever, everything changes.
My skin flushed hot at the dark, hungry look he threw my way. No one had ever stared at me with such abject longing and desire.
I whispered his name.
His nostrils flared. “Fuck it,” he snarled as he charged me. He hauled me against his body as his lips crashed down over mine.
OMG, the sexual tension between these two is fantastic! I was feeling it with them, and couldn’t wait for them to give in to it all. It’s hot and steamy, and so much fun as they cave to all of their mad lust for each other. And though they promised they’d keep it simple and not get emotional about it, of course feelings develop
I released her hand to smooth her hair back from her face as I whispered across her lips. “There’s something here. Isn’t there?”
This time she released the full blast of her smile as she looked up at me with tenderness and affection. “There is. I’ve thought that for five years.”
My chest suddenly felt too full as I stared into her eyes.
Because how the fuck did I get so lucky?
It’s not all smooth sailing, and they do have some issues to work through, but it’s not an angsty read at all, and I loved watching these two figure out their feelings and where they stand with each other.
I had a choice. I could remain steadfast in my believe that I preferred to be single and probably end up a miserable, lonely bastard for the rest of my life. Or I could accept that the wind blew in change whenever it felt like it and you either adjusted or fought against it to your ruin.
Allegra’s bright spirit is so endearing. Her life hasn’t been easy, and she has some difficult family dynamics to navigate, and my heart hurt for her. I enjoyed watching her past come to light, seeing her interact with her family, find the strength to confront their issues, and bravely fight for the life that she wants.
And Jared is right there supporting her through it all. Jared is the quiet type, and isn’t one to speak about his feelings, but his sweet gestures, his quiet support, his protectiveness over Allegra and constant use of the words “my wife” are ovary melting!
“I’m the husband,” he bit out coolly. “I don’t know who you are, but touch my wife again and I’ll break your fucking hand.”
This is such a gorgeous read, with a little bit of suspense added which brings some intensity without overwhelming the romance. I loved seeing the characters previous books, and Jared and Allegra’s love story owned my heart.
Absolutely beautiful. 5 stars.
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
May 3, 2024
Just when I think the author can’t possibly get any better she outdoes herself, this one was SO good! I’ve loved every book in this series but I think this is my top pick now, and really that’s saying something because every book has been a five star read for me. The familial connections here were so meaningful, at this point in the series I’ve gotten to know many of the players and it just makes the reading experience that much more special for me. Allegra wants to stay in Scotland and Jared needs help saving his family farm so they decide to get married. Cue the “my wife” moments and I’m just a puddle 🫠 I think one of the things I love the most about romantic suspense is the combination of romance and tension just adds an extra layer to the story and the author weaves things together so well. With the sizzling chemistry Allegra and Jared had together, the beautiful setting and the danger lurking around I was totally captivated. This series is top tier and if you haven’t read it yet you must!
April 29, 2024
Headlines:
Marriage of convenience
Practicalities pushing, feelings pulling
Assumptions
Skies Over Caledonia swept me off my feet with this marriage of convenience story (a trope I love). Allegra and Jared were characters we'd met previously but I add myself to the people who had misunderstood Allegra's personality and intentions. Jared was also someone I hadn't really fleshed out in my mind previously but these two took the stage and commanded it.
Jared's commitment and love of the farm drove his reason for being in this situation. Allegra already had feelings for Jared but she didn't realise how strong. I loved her finding her simple peace on the farm, the bumpy road to companionship with Jared and my goodness, the chickens. Allegra was a case of so much under the beauty and behind the family name; she's become a favourite heroine in this series.
Jared and Allegra's building connection felt paced so well, it took time, it took a little miscommunication but the goodness in these two seemed like magnets and brought them together. The farm setting, the glamping business, the sheep and the their life in the farm cottage just made me want to keep these too in a bubble and keep the world out.
The world outside brought gossip, suspense, family interference and secrets exposed. This plot was meaty and satisfying with some heart stopping moments towards the end.
Skies Over Caledonia is my favourite installment of this series so far and I can see myself dipping in for a re-read sometime just to be in the Allegra-Jared bubble.
Thank you to the author for the review copy which has not affected this honest review.
**content warning for animal death**
Marriage of convenience
Practicalities pushing, feelings pulling
Assumptions
Skies Over Caledonia swept me off my feet with this marriage of convenience story (a trope I love). Allegra and Jared were characters we'd met previously but I add myself to the people who had misunderstood Allegra's personality and intentions. Jared was also someone I hadn't really fleshed out in my mind previously but these two took the stage and commanded it.
Jared's commitment and love of the farm drove his reason for being in this situation. Allegra already had feelings for Jared but she didn't realise how strong. I loved her finding her simple peace on the farm, the bumpy road to companionship with Jared and my goodness, the chickens. Allegra was a case of so much under the beauty and behind the family name; she's become a favourite heroine in this series.
Jared and Allegra's building connection felt paced so well, it took time, it took a little miscommunication but the goodness in these two seemed like magnets and brought them together. The farm setting, the glamping business, the sheep and the their life in the farm cottage just made me want to keep these too in a bubble and keep the world out.
The world outside brought gossip, suspense, family interference and secrets exposed. This plot was meaty and satisfying with some heart stopping moments towards the end.
Skies Over Caledonia is my favourite installment of this series so far and I can see myself dipping in for a re-read sometime just to be in the Allegra-Jared bubble.
Thank you to the author for the review copy which has not affected this honest review.
**content warning for animal death**
October 16, 2024
*ARC Given to Blog for Honest Review*
5 “McCulloch Farm” “Tha gaol agom ort.” Kisses
Well…now what am I supposed to do with myself?!?!? It happens every time I finish another amazing Samantha Young book…I have an insane book hangover (luckily I only have to wait a couple more months for the next one) but after the 5 books in the Adair Family Series ( Here With Me , There With You , Always You , Be With Me , and Only You ) and now the Highlands Series ( Beyond the Thistles , Among the Heather and Through the Glen and Skies Over Caledonia), you would think I would be used to the feeling. But alas, I am not! And if this is what it’s always going to be like, then bring it on because I. am. here. for. it!!!! Now…if you have no idea who the Adair Family is and what’s so great about the Highlands, then we need to halt the presses because this must be remedied ASAP. Not only are these two of my favorite series ever but The Highlands Series is a spin off of The Adair Family Series – they’re all standalones and can be read as such, but if you’re a series lover like me – trust me, just one is so not enough and reading all of these books and watching how the stories keep building off each other – it’s a *chefs kiss* experience that cannot be duplicated. 100000000/10 totally recommend it – especially if you like sexy Scots, romantic suspense and ALL of the feels! I didn’t know how ready I was for Allegra to get her HEA but…wow – this book was soooooooo much more than I ever expected.
Allegra Emma Howard McCulloch…I’ve been dying to really understand who Allegra was for a while. My first real taste of her was with Beyond the Thistles and then we really get to know more about her with her sister Aria’s book, Among the Heather…but nothing can truly prepare you for how deeply a character can affect you (I learned that the hard way with Theo in Through the Glen) and getting the full picture of who Allegra was everything I needed it to be. I always knew there was more to her…more to her actions…I just couldn’t put my finger on it – but there was no way to properly prepare me for what happened to her that basically altered her reality and set her on the path that inevitably would lead her to Scotland and her future. It’s hard because while it’s not pretty or fun or anything that I would wish on anyone, it also shaped Allegra into who she is – and while the road way bumpy, the woman she has grown into is absolutely amazing and I wouldn’t want to change that and her future for one second. I loved her all-in attitude, she’s definitely got that artist “free spirited” vibe to her but at her core, she’s just a girl that wants to have a home…and thank god that place she calls home is Scotland.
Jared McCulloch…I’ve always had a soft spot for manwhores – I can’t help it…and Jared is far from your typical manwhore. Maybe it’s cause he’s a farmer…maybe it’s cause he’s like a manwhore trapped inside a nice guys body, so it’s like a sneak attack – it might be because my first real interactions with Jared were through his cousin Sarah in Through the Glen and that was as a big brother/protector – so he’ll always have biiiiiig teddy bear energy for me. I knew he was a secret softy and I was way too excited to see that energy directed at Allegra. Here’s the thing with Jared…I could sit here and write a 10 page essay on all my thoughts and feelings about him, how he processed his grief and his feelings about the farm and his family – it’s a lot and the man has been through the ringer in the past 5-6 years. He’s compartmentalized a lot and it’s not that he doesn’t have a good support system but he needs more – more than the farm, more than just casual…just more – and the perfect amount of more just happens to be shaped like his wife.
Allegra and Jared…from the moment I read the Prologue I knew these two had me in the palm of their little hands. And they did! And I would gladly still be there if I could be. I’m a sucker for a marriage of convenience type story but I knew this one was going to be different…and it so was. Watching these two allow themselves to open up as much as they did with each other was beyond any of my expectations – especially for Allegra. The fact that she shared something that Aria didn’t even know (insert mega shocked face here!!!) was earth shattering for me and same with Jared sharing things that his cousin didn’t know – it was almost more than my heart could take. They truly built a solid friendship and foundation before anything sexual ever took place…but don’t get me wrong, these two were absolutely electric together, in every way shape and form. The moment the gloves were off and they finally gave themselves a chance to really be together…it was like everything in the world finally made sense…just pure unadulterated bliss and I could not get over how happy they made each other. After what both of them had been through in their past, if this was their reward it was well and truly worth it because of the happiness they brought each other.
Samantha Young…I bow down to the greatness. That’s all I can do at this point…and also try and get as many people to read and fall in love with the Ardnoch world as I have because dear lord have mercy. I mean…this is 9 books in just over 3 years and it has completely captivated my heart in all the best ways possible. Every aspect of this series just knocks it out of the park for me and every time I read another book it’s like coming home. I recently (and finally, I might add!) got my best friend to start reading this series and she’s just as hooked as me (and only two books in *smug face*) and I couldn’t be more proud of myself. Every aspect of these books just calls to me…the characters, the dynamics between all of them, the way Samantha describes everything – you feel absolutely transported. And don’t even get me started on the storylines and the way she weaves in the mystery/suspense aspect of everything…it’s just so good. I will always rave about the way she is able to blend this into the perfect balance of romance and suspense – they’re my two favorite genres but I’ve never really found one that does the perfect split…until Samantha!
The ending was…in typical Samantha Young fashion. I’ve learned to never get to comfortable with the endings – she always likes to keep me on my toes, and she definitely did with this one! It was effective, not too drawn out – I’m not a fan of drama for the sake of drama and this was so not that at all - I do wish some of the resolution hadn’t been saved for the epilogue, but that is minor, and the fact that it was addressed period was fine enough for me. It didn’t change the fact that it still gave Allegra and Jared everything I could have wanted for them and then some. And the bonus epilogue through the link – just stop! It was just too perfect for words. So…I know the next book in The Highlands Series – Northern Twilight - is about Lewis and Callie and to say I am excited is like saying oxygen is kind of necessary to breathe. I have loved Lewis Adair since Here with Me and the obsession has only grown with the other books – and same with Callie in Beyond the Thistles. I knew they would be together but I don’t think I gave my heart permission to wish for their very own book but I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!!! #TakeMeBackToArdnoch
5 “McCulloch Farm” “Tha gaol agom ort.” Kisses
Well…now what am I supposed to do with myself?!?!? It happens every time I finish another amazing Samantha Young book…I have an insane book hangover (luckily I only have to wait a couple more months for the next one) but after the 5 books in the Adair Family Series ( Here With Me , There With You , Always You , Be With Me , and Only You ) and now the Highlands Series ( Beyond the Thistles , Among the Heather and Through the Glen and Skies Over Caledonia), you would think I would be used to the feeling. But alas, I am not! And if this is what it’s always going to be like, then bring it on because I. am. here. for. it!!!! Now…if you have no idea who the Adair Family is and what’s so great about the Highlands, then we need to halt the presses because this must be remedied ASAP. Not only are these two of my favorite series ever but The Highlands Series is a spin off of The Adair Family Series – they’re all standalones and can be read as such, but if you’re a series lover like me – trust me, just one is so not enough and reading all of these books and watching how the stories keep building off each other – it’s a *chefs kiss* experience that cannot be duplicated. 100000000/10 totally recommend it – especially if you like sexy Scots, romantic suspense and ALL of the feels! I didn’t know how ready I was for Allegra to get her HEA but…wow – this book was soooooooo much more than I ever expected.
Allegra Emma Howard McCulloch…I’ve been dying to really understand who Allegra was for a while. My first real taste of her was with Beyond the Thistles and then we really get to know more about her with her sister Aria’s book, Among the Heather…but nothing can truly prepare you for how deeply a character can affect you (I learned that the hard way with Theo in Through the Glen) and getting the full picture of who Allegra was everything I needed it to be. I always knew there was more to her…more to her actions…I just couldn’t put my finger on it – but there was no way to properly prepare me for what happened to her that basically altered her reality and set her on the path that inevitably would lead her to Scotland and her future. It’s hard because while it’s not pretty or fun or anything that I would wish on anyone, it also shaped Allegra into who she is – and while the road way bumpy, the woman she has grown into is absolutely amazing and I wouldn’t want to change that and her future for one second. I loved her all-in attitude, she’s definitely got that artist “free spirited” vibe to her but at her core, she’s just a girl that wants to have a home…and thank god that place she calls home is Scotland.
‘I stepped into Jared’s path as he moved back toward the door. “I know we don’t know each other very well, Jared, but I’m going to tell you a few things that might stop you second-guessing me in the future.” I leaned into him a little, his cologne tickling my senses. “One: I never do anything I don’t want to do. Two: I’m not some Hollywood princess whose been protected in bubble wrap her whole life. I’ve almost died, I’ve shot someone, and I’ve been to rehab. And that all happened before I was eighteen years old.”
His nostrils flared in surprise at my confession.
“Life is hard, Jared. And painful. Not even money can protect you from that. I’m not who you think I am, and I’d like it, if going forward, you could just treat me … as a person and not as Chiara and Wesley Howard’s daughter.” I tried to keep the bitterness out of those last words, but I wasn’t sure I succeeded.’
Jared McCulloch…I’ve always had a soft spot for manwhores – I can’t help it…and Jared is far from your typical manwhore. Maybe it’s cause he’s a farmer…maybe it’s cause he’s like a manwhore trapped inside a nice guys body, so it’s like a sneak attack – it might be because my first real interactions with Jared were through his cousin Sarah in Through the Glen and that was as a big brother/protector – so he’ll always have biiiiiig teddy bear energy for me. I knew he was a secret softy and I was way too excited to see that energy directed at Allegra. Here’s the thing with Jared…I could sit here and write a 10 page essay on all my thoughts and feelings about him, how he processed his grief and his feelings about the farm and his family – it’s a lot and the man has been through the ringer in the past 5-6 years. He’s compartmentalized a lot and it’s not that he doesn’t have a good support system but he needs more – more than the farm, more than just casual…just more – and the perfect amount of more just happens to be shaped like his wife.
“But who …” He snatched up my hand, his grip tight. “Who was protecting you?”
I sucked in a teary breath, my vision blurring. “Jared …”
“I don’t know if what I say means anything, but I want you to know that none of it was your fault. As someone who did really awful, stupid shit as an angry kid, I know what it feels like. But I had my grandfather. He knew everything about my past. And having him carry that for me made all the difference. I know our marriage is just a business deal, but our friendship can be as real as you want it to be. I promise you now that you’ll always have it. And I’ll carry this for you. I don’t want you to be alone in it anymore.”
Allegra and Jared…from the moment I read the Prologue I knew these two had me in the palm of their little hands. And they did! And I would gladly still be there if I could be. I’m a sucker for a marriage of convenience type story but I knew this one was going to be different…and it so was. Watching these two allow themselves to open up as much as they did with each other was beyond any of my expectations – especially for Allegra. The fact that she shared something that Aria didn’t even know (insert mega shocked face here!!!) was earth shattering for me and same with Jared sharing things that his cousin didn’t know – it was almost more than my heart could take. They truly built a solid friendship and foundation before anything sexual ever took place…but don’t get me wrong, these two were absolutely electric together, in every way shape and form. The moment the gloves were off and they finally gave themselves a chance to really be together…it was like everything in the world finally made sense…just pure unadulterated bliss and I could not get over how happy they made each other. After what both of them had been through in their past, if this was their reward it was well and truly worth it because of the happiness they brought each other.
‘I released her hand to smooth her hair back from her face as I whispered across her lips. “There’s something here. Isn’t there?”
This time she released the full blast of her smile as she looked up at me with tenderness and affection. “There is. I’ve thought that for five years.”
My chest suddenly felt too full as I stared into her eyes.
Because how the fuck did I get so lucky? I didn’t know what a woman like Allegra Howard McCulloch saw in me, but I was too smart to question it.’
Samantha Young…I bow down to the greatness. That’s all I can do at this point…and also try and get as many people to read and fall in love with the Ardnoch world as I have because dear lord have mercy. I mean…this is 9 books in just over 3 years and it has completely captivated my heart in all the best ways possible. Every aspect of this series just knocks it out of the park for me and every time I read another book it’s like coming home. I recently (and finally, I might add!) got my best friend to start reading this series and she’s just as hooked as me (and only two books in *smug face*) and I couldn’t be more proud of myself. Every aspect of these books just calls to me…the characters, the dynamics between all of them, the way Samantha describes everything – you feel absolutely transported. And don’t even get me started on the storylines and the way she weaves in the mystery/suspense aspect of everything…it’s just so good. I will always rave about the way she is able to blend this into the perfect balance of romance and suspense – they’re my two favorite genres but I’ve never really found one that does the perfect split…until Samantha!
‘And that’s when I finally found the words. “I want you to know that you are what matters most to me now.”
She lifted her gaze, those big brown eyes gleaming with wonder. “Really?”
I rested my forehead against hers. “Really.”
“I feel the same,” she whispered, voice hoarse with emotion. “You matter more than anything.”
Too much feeling coursed through me, I couldn’t speak. How the hell did I get so lucky to have found a wife who was…my best friend?
“No one makes me feel as safe as you do, Jared. I didn’t think I would ever find that.” She wrapped her arms around me and buried her face in my neck. And I vowed then and there that I would always be her safe place, and I’d never let anything harm this woman ever again.’
The ending was…in typical Samantha Young fashion. I’ve learned to never get to comfortable with the endings – she always likes to keep me on my toes, and she definitely did with this one! It was effective, not too drawn out – I’m not a fan of drama for the sake of drama and this was so not that at all - I do wish some of the resolution hadn’t been saved for the epilogue, but that is minor, and the fact that it was addressed period was fine enough for me. It didn’t change the fact that it still gave Allegra and Jared everything I could have wanted for them and then some. And the bonus epilogue through the link – just stop! It was just too perfect for words. So…I know the next book in The Highlands Series – Northern Twilight - is about Lewis and Callie and to say I am excited is like saying oxygen is kind of necessary to breathe. I have loved Lewis Adair since Here with Me and the obsession has only grown with the other books – and same with Callie in Beyond the Thistles. I knew they would be together but I don’t think I gave my heart permission to wish for their very own book but I. CANNOT. WAIT!!!!! #TakeMeBackToArdnoch
May 8, 2024
4.5 'The missing piece' Stars!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I believe we all have been curious about Allegra Howard and Jared McCulloch since we met them in the second book of this series. Samantha Young is one of those authors for me that always works. I always know she will deliver an emotional, steamy and entertaining love story. Of course, she didn’t disappoint with this one either. Samantha’s newest release had written the word “addicting” all over it and I am so glad I was not wrong!
So, Skies Over Caledonia is the fourth installment in The Highlands series and, as I said, it tells the story of Allegra (Aria’s younger sister from Among the Heather) and Jared (Sarah’s cousin from Through the Glen). These two are from two polar opposite worlds but they happen to need each other’s help. Allegra wants to stay in Scotland and Jared needs to save his beloved farm. Their idea? Well, a marriage of convenience, of course! But things are not as easy as they seem, especially when they have been attracted to one another since their very first meeting and some suspicious events start to happen around them.
“We’re married. I’m your husband and you’re my wife. And we have eighteen months to decide if we want to stay that way.”
Oh yes, as I mentioned before, Skies Over Caledonia had all the elements of “addicting” written all over it. Grumpy and possessive farmer? Check. Beautiful and talented artist? Check. Marriage of convenience? Check. Gripping sexual tension? Check. “Fu*k it” moments? Check. A bit of suspense? Check. A whole lot of spice and feelings? Check, check, check! Need I say more? Because this story had me addicted from start to finish. I loved Jared and Allegra together, I loved them making the farm their safe haven, I loved reading how they are unable to stop their true feelings showing up. I just love how Samantha writes her stories and how she keeps us at the edge with every single installment in the series. Again, she did a wonderful job with this new couple!
Too much feeling coursed through me, I couldn’t speak. How the hell did I get so lucky to have found a wife who was… my best friend?
Therefore, I am rating Skies Over Caledonia with 4.5 STARS because it’s another magnificent addition to this series that keeps me gripped and loving every single couple this talented woman creates. I loved how Samantha developed the marriage of convenience troupe and I loved reading how Allegra and Jared fall head over heels in love with each other. And now? Oh God, after knowing what couple is coming next? I am even more excited for the next one. I cannot wait!!
ARC provided via Valentine PR in exchange for an honest review.
I believe we all have been curious about Allegra Howard and Jared McCulloch since we met them in the second book of this series. Samantha Young is one of those authors for me that always works. I always know she will deliver an emotional, steamy and entertaining love story. Of course, she didn’t disappoint with this one either. Samantha’s newest release had written the word “addicting” all over it and I am so glad I was not wrong!
So, Skies Over Caledonia is the fourth installment in The Highlands series and, as I said, it tells the story of Allegra (Aria’s younger sister from Among the Heather) and Jared (Sarah’s cousin from Through the Glen). These two are from two polar opposite worlds but they happen to need each other’s help. Allegra wants to stay in Scotland and Jared needs to save his beloved farm. Their idea? Well, a marriage of convenience, of course! But things are not as easy as they seem, especially when they have been attracted to one another since their very first meeting and some suspicious events start to happen around them.
“We’re married. I’m your husband and you’re my wife. And we have eighteen months to decide if we want to stay that way.”
Oh yes, as I mentioned before, Skies Over Caledonia had all the elements of “addicting” written all over it. Grumpy and possessive farmer? Check. Beautiful and talented artist? Check. Marriage of convenience? Check. Gripping sexual tension? Check. “Fu*k it” moments? Check. A bit of suspense? Check. A whole lot of spice and feelings? Check, check, check! Need I say more? Because this story had me addicted from start to finish. I loved Jared and Allegra together, I loved them making the farm their safe haven, I loved reading how they are unable to stop their true feelings showing up. I just love how Samantha writes her stories and how she keeps us at the edge with every single installment in the series. Again, she did a wonderful job with this new couple!
Too much feeling coursed through me, I couldn’t speak. How the hell did I get so lucky to have found a wife who was… my best friend?
Therefore, I am rating Skies Over Caledonia with 4.5 STARS because it’s another magnificent addition to this series that keeps me gripped and loving every single couple this talented woman creates. I loved how Samantha developed the marriage of convenience troupe and I loved reading how Allegra and Jared fall head over heels in love with each other. And now? Oh God, after knowing what couple is coming next? I am even more excited for the next one. I cannot wait!!
May 1, 2024
A romance full of spice and tension
When you think it can't get better, Samantha teaches you differently
Oh my gosh! I love this story, and Jared and Allegra. Simply all in this book!
Starting with the writing: It's easy to follow and hook one from page one. Even for a non native english speaker. And is written from both POV's from the I-speaker.
There's a lot of tension, I mean the good one with all the spice within. Because they could get hot. Not lying here.
The protagonists: Jared and Allegra.
They're really reliable to me, there's all the feels and I was desperately hoping for their best outcome and yes the spice.
Both have a unique voice that captivated me from the very beginning. This story is now deep in my heart. I didn't know I was missing it till I read it.
The plott: It's mainly about the evolution between Jared and Allegra. I like how they'd change throughout the book. The fact of trusting someone else and finding a foundation for true love in becoming friends.
The subplot: As all books in the Adair- and Highland-series, there's a clever subplot about a little crime going on. I was surprised in the end, is all I can say. Mostly, I got it right from the beginning. This time, I did not. Well done!
Conclusion:
A romance full of spice and tension between two people that might not have anything in common but needed desperately a marriage of convenience. This story is ready to blow your mind completely (for the good).
Stars: 5/5
About the book:
He’s a down-to-earth highland farmer. She’s the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they’re from different worlds, but that won’t stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience…
It’s been five years since Jared McCulloch’s grandfather Collum passed away, and he inherited his farm in the Scottish Highlands. After his grandad saved him from his past life, Jared is determined to honor Collum’s legacy. But not only has a series of bad luck put him in danger of losing the farm, his estranged father is disputing the will. In a desperate situation, Jared realizes he’ll do just about anything to save the land.
Even marrying Allegra Howard, a woman he’s avoided at all costs.
A woman who tempts him beyond reason.
There’s only one place that makes Allegra Howard feel safe; one place that feeds her artist’s soul. Allegra wants to settle down in Scotland and expand her business. But there’s a hitch: immigration intends to return her to US soil.
Panicked, Allegra finds the one person just as desperate as she is. The same person she’s lusted after for years. In exchange for marrying her, she’ll invest financially in Jared McCulloch’s farm.
However, living together only forces them to acknowledge their searing mutual attraction. And with it comes an undeniable emotional connection Jared’s not sure he’s ready for.
Yet, blurring the lines of their arrangement is the least of his concerns when someone begins terrorizing the farm.
Allegra and Jared came together to save what matters most, and now that might just be each other. And unless they can figure out which of their pasts has returned to torment them, they could lose their chance at a real future together...
Info:
My best read of the year so far!
This is the 4th book of the Highland-series and can be read as a standalone.
I've got an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review, which has not influenced my opinion on this book.
When you think it can't get better, Samantha teaches you differently
Oh my gosh! I love this story, and Jared and Allegra. Simply all in this book!
Starting with the writing: It's easy to follow and hook one from page one. Even for a non native english speaker. And is written from both POV's from the I-speaker.
There's a lot of tension, I mean the good one with all the spice within. Because they could get hot. Not lying here.
The protagonists: Jared and Allegra.
They're really reliable to me, there's all the feels and I was desperately hoping for their best outcome and yes the spice.
Both have a unique voice that captivated me from the very beginning. This story is now deep in my heart. I didn't know I was missing it till I read it.
The plott: It's mainly about the evolution between Jared and Allegra. I like how they'd change throughout the book. The fact of trusting someone else and finding a foundation for true love in becoming friends.
The subplot: As all books in the Adair- and Highland-series, there's a clever subplot about a little crime going on. I was surprised in the end, is all I can say. Mostly, I got it right from the beginning. This time, I did not. Well done!
Conclusion:
A romance full of spice and tension between two people that might not have anything in common but needed desperately a marriage of convenience. This story is ready to blow your mind completely (for the good).
Stars: 5/5
About the book:
He’s a down-to-earth highland farmer. She’s the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they’re from different worlds, but that won’t stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience…
It’s been five years since Jared McCulloch’s grandfather Collum passed away, and he inherited his farm in the Scottish Highlands. After his grandad saved him from his past life, Jared is determined to honor Collum’s legacy. But not only has a series of bad luck put him in danger of losing the farm, his estranged father is disputing the will. In a desperate situation, Jared realizes he’ll do just about anything to save the land.
Even marrying Allegra Howard, a woman he’s avoided at all costs.
A woman who tempts him beyond reason.
There’s only one place that makes Allegra Howard feel safe; one place that feeds her artist’s soul. Allegra wants to settle down in Scotland and expand her business. But there’s a hitch: immigration intends to return her to US soil.
Panicked, Allegra finds the one person just as desperate as she is. The same person she’s lusted after for years. In exchange for marrying her, she’ll invest financially in Jared McCulloch’s farm.
However, living together only forces them to acknowledge their searing mutual attraction. And with it comes an undeniable emotional connection Jared’s not sure he’s ready for.
Yet, blurring the lines of their arrangement is the least of his concerns when someone begins terrorizing the farm.
Allegra and Jared came together to save what matters most, and now that might just be each other. And unless they can figure out which of their pasts has returned to torment them, they could lose their chance at a real future together...
Info:
My best read of the year so far!
This is the 4th book of the Highland-series and can be read as a standalone.
I've got an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review, which has not influenced my opinion on this book.
May 10, 2024
5 stars. It’s been a while since I’ve read a book in a day, but leave it to Samantha Young to pen something so unputdownable that I, well, couldn’t put it down 😂.
It feels like I’ve been waiting forever for Sam to write a marriage of convenience romance. It’s one of my favorite tropes and boy did Sam do it justice, giving us plenty of “my wife” moments. I was a little nervous, because Jared and Allegra were not necessarily my favorite secondary characters in previous books. Jared seemed like your basic misanthropic playboy and Allegra seemed flighty and out of touch with reality. But as it turns out, I had nothing to worry about. I LOVE a misunderstood character. And I really LOVE an underestimated character. And that is what we got with Jared and Allegra. This was the book that I didn’t know I needed, but has turned out to be my favorite so far in the series. Allegra and Jared both had very difficult childhoods for very different reasons. And the scars from their childhood ran deep. Because of that, they were both very guarded and very lonely. I’d also consider this a slow burn, and I really appreciated all of the time and care Jared and Allegra (and consequently Sam as an author) put into getting to know one another. And of course, because this is the Highlands series, we get some heroine in danger moments with a bit of a mystery as to who the bad guy is. Honestly, I love these books. I will take any excuse to spend time in Ardnoch. As long as Sam keeps writing these, I will keep reading. (And not to spoil it but Sam does announce who the next couple is and I can’t flipping wait because they are literally the couple we have all been waiting for!)
Thank you so much to Sam for sending me an early copy in exchange for an honest review. I’ve been reading her books for years, and will continue to do so, even after I stop getting review copies. She’s a favorite author of mine and I can’t sing her praises enough (regardless of whether I receive an arc copy or not).
It feels like I’ve been waiting forever for Sam to write a marriage of convenience romance. It’s one of my favorite tropes and boy did Sam do it justice, giving us plenty of “my wife” moments. I was a little nervous, because Jared and Allegra were not necessarily my favorite secondary characters in previous books. Jared seemed like your basic misanthropic playboy and Allegra seemed flighty and out of touch with reality. But as it turns out, I had nothing to worry about. I LOVE a misunderstood character. And I really LOVE an underestimated character. And that is what we got with Jared and Allegra. This was the book that I didn’t know I needed, but has turned out to be my favorite so far in the series. Allegra and Jared both had very difficult childhoods for very different reasons. And the scars from their childhood ran deep. Because of that, they were both very guarded and very lonely. I’d also consider this a slow burn, and I really appreciated all of the time and care Jared and Allegra (and consequently Sam as an author) put into getting to know one another. And of course, because this is the Highlands series, we get some heroine in danger moments with a bit of a mystery as to who the bad guy is. Honestly, I love these books. I will take any excuse to spend time in Ardnoch. As long as Sam keeps writing these, I will keep reading. (And not to spoil it but Sam does announce who the next couple is and I can’t flipping wait because they are literally the couple we have all been waiting for!)
Thank you so much to Sam for sending me an early copy in exchange for an honest review. I’ve been reading her books for years, and will continue to do so, even after I stop getting review copies. She’s a favorite author of mine and I can’t sing her praises enough (regardless of whether I receive an arc copy or not).
May 8, 2024
5⭐️
3🌶️
He's a down-to-earth highland farmer. She's the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they're from different worlds, but that won't stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience...
GUYS!! It's so good 😭😭 You know those books that you are enjoying so much you don't want to read them because you don't want them to end? THIS!! Samantha is a favourite author of mine and this is just another great example of her amazing story telling! Jared and Allegra both have a heartbreaking past and it is told beautifully. I would recommend checking the trigger warnings though! If you're new to Samantha, you can start with this book, even though it is the fourth in this series! I would, however, recommend going back to the beginning and starting with the Adair Family series and then reading the Highlands series because they're so darn good. It's well worth it!! She also has a huge backlist of books that I still need to work through!!
3🌶️
He's a down-to-earth highland farmer. She's the rebellious daughter of Hollywood royalty. They might seem like they're from different worlds, but that won't stop them from engaging in a marriage of convenience...
GUYS!! It's so good 😭😭 You know those books that you are enjoying so much you don't want to read them because you don't want them to end? THIS!! Samantha is a favourite author of mine and this is just another great example of her amazing story telling! Jared and Allegra both have a heartbreaking past and it is told beautifully. I would recommend checking the trigger warnings though! If you're new to Samantha, you can start with this book, even though it is the fourth in this series! I would, however, recommend going back to the beginning and starting with the Adair Family series and then reading the Highlands series because they're so darn good. It's well worth it!! She also has a huge backlist of books that I still need to work through!!
May 14, 2024
PERFECT.
Marriage of convince when done well, has me in a tizzy. There's something about the whole "My wife" line that gets me giddy and this book has that in spades.
Guys, it was SO GOOD. We meet Jared and Allegra in prior books as background characters, so having them front and centre, getting insight into them as individuals is such a treat. They're not strangers to one another and there is tension from the get go, no matter the little age gap. The concept of the marriage is believable and you will root for these two the whole way through. There's still suspense in this one, however it does come differently to the books prior, therefore keeping things interesting!
Also, Jared is a Scottish farmer in the highlands with a mouth you will need a cool drink to recover from... like, come on!!! Allegra this just isn't fair.
The tension, the spice, the drama! This series has become a fast favourite of mine, and I swear it has nothing to do with the delicious accents and scenery.
Such a great read and I cannot wait to continue with the series as they come out. You best believe I'll also be doing a reread.
Thank you to the author for the ALC (Advanced Listening Copy) and for the paperback you've sent my way! I'm incredibly honoured and you bet I'll be spreading the word.
Marriage of convince when done well, has me in a tizzy. There's something about the whole "My wife" line that gets me giddy and this book has that in spades.
Guys, it was SO GOOD. We meet Jared and Allegra in prior books as background characters, so having them front and centre, getting insight into them as individuals is such a treat. They're not strangers to one another and there is tension from the get go, no matter the little age gap. The concept of the marriage is believable and you will root for these two the whole way through. There's still suspense in this one, however it does come differently to the books prior, therefore keeping things interesting!
Also, Jared is a Scottish farmer in the highlands with a mouth you will need a cool drink to recover from... like, come on!!! Allegra this just isn't fair.
The tension, the spice, the drama! This series has become a fast favourite of mine, and I swear it has nothing to do with the delicious accents and scenery.
Such a great read and I cannot wait to continue with the series as they come out. You best believe I'll also be doing a reread.
Thank you to the author for the ALC (Advanced Listening Copy) and for the paperback you've sent my way! I'm incredibly honoured and you bet I'll be spreading the word.
April 30, 2024
This is the fourth book in Samantha Young's Highlands series but can be read as a standalone and it is a new favorite in the series! I loved this book so much. This is a small town, forced proximity, marriage of convenience, opposite side of the tracks romance.
Jared is a farmer who is trying to keep his late grandfather's farm afloat while dealing with financial struggles. Allegra is the daughter of Hollywood royalty and known for being impulsive.
Allegra loves Scotland and feels at home there but learns that if she leaves she won't be allowed back into the country without a work visa. She knows about Jared's financial struggles and comes up with the idea of a marriage of convenience. She gets to stay in the country and he gets part of her trust fund to fix the farm. I loved their relationship so much! Jared has so many "my wife" moments and falls so hard for Allegra. I loved that they really go for it with the relationship and most of the conflict comes from outside the relationship. The tension between them was so good and they had amazing chemistry. I am so glad that I got an ALC for this book! The audiobook is done incredibly well. Shane East's Scottish accent is so good I loved it! And Stella Hunter always does an amazing job and this one was no different. They truly brought the characters to life. I highly recommend listening!
Jared is a farmer who is trying to keep his late grandfather's farm afloat while dealing with financial struggles. Allegra is the daughter of Hollywood royalty and known for being impulsive.
Allegra loves Scotland and feels at home there but learns that if she leaves she won't be allowed back into the country without a work visa. She knows about Jared's financial struggles and comes up with the idea of a marriage of convenience. She gets to stay in the country and he gets part of her trust fund to fix the farm. I loved their relationship so much! Jared has so many "my wife" moments and falls so hard for Allegra. I loved that they really go for it with the relationship and most of the conflict comes from outside the relationship. The tension between them was so good and they had amazing chemistry. I am so glad that I got an ALC for this book! The audiobook is done incredibly well. Shane East's Scottish accent is so good I loved it! And Stella Hunter always does an amazing job and this one was no different. They truly brought the characters to life. I highly recommend listening!
May 13, 2024
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🎧
Just when you don't think you could love this series anymore, Samantha gifts us with this gem.
I loved Allegra. She might not be polished, but she sure knows what she wants, and what she wants is to be and live in Scotland. And if that means a marriage of convenience, well, so be it. I mean, just look at Jared. He is easy on the eyes, and well, he needs her as much as she needs him.
Oh, the sparks sure do fly in this beauty. The undeniable attraction can not be tamed. It's the friendship that blooms and grows that shows them that maybe, just maybe, this doesn't have to be fake.
I loved it, and this whole world just buried itself in my heart. Shane and Stella's narration really gives this story wings; it's beautiful.
Just when you don't think you could love this series anymore, Samantha gifts us with this gem.
I loved Allegra. She might not be polished, but she sure knows what she wants, and what she wants is to be and live in Scotland. And if that means a marriage of convenience, well, so be it. I mean, just look at Jared. He is easy on the eyes, and well, he needs her as much as she needs him.
Oh, the sparks sure do fly in this beauty. The undeniable attraction can not be tamed. It's the friendship that blooms and grows that shows them that maybe, just maybe, this doesn't have to be fake.
I loved it, and this whole world just buried itself in my heart. Shane and Stella's narration really gives this story wings; it's beautiful.
March 20, 2025
I wanted to read this book, since the ending of Aria and North's story. Because we had only a small glimpse of Allegra and Jared and I knew their love would be worth it.
From the previous books, it looked like Jared was a playboy. He kind of was, but then again he didn't want to feel anything. From the first moment he saw Allegra, he was attracted to her, but decided not to act on it, because she was Aria's sister. But now, 5 years later, she needs his help in order to stay in her favorite Scotland. The solution to the problem for both of them is to get married, with the decision to not be with other people...at least for a couple of months.
Aria always liked Jared and she felt this insane attraction. But his actions 5 years ago made her believe that he didn't want her. She thought that, like other people, he never saw her beyond her family's fame and money. Oh boy, how wrong she was. He did see her, but knew that if he took a step towards her nothing would be the same. At one point, none of them could resist the strong pull they felt.
The thing with these two is that none of them trust them easily. Jared felt this insane pain after his grandfather's death, the desperation about his farm going down. Aria was like a balm for his soul. The one that makes him believe in himself and love her fiercely. After a while, she felt that she could trust him and, because of that, we finally saw why she went off the rail years ago, and I felt so much for her. Because it turns out her family is the one at fault and, to me, they don't deserve forgiveness.
I also love the fact that we've seen characters from the previous books. They both had loyal friends at their site, which was so nice.
When it comes to the chemistry between them...OMG, it was so, so hot. Reading the love scenes made my heart pound. They literally couldn't keep their hands off each other. There was so much smut and spice, with a drop of kink 🥵.
Now, I can't wait to read Callie and Lewis love story.
Overall, I loved reading "Skies over Caledonia" ♥️.
From the previous books, it looked like Jared was a playboy. He kind of was, but then again he didn't want to feel anything. From the first moment he saw Allegra, he was attracted to her, but decided not to act on it, because she was Aria's sister. But now, 5 years later, she needs his help in order to stay in her favorite Scotland. The solution to the problem for both of them is to get married, with the decision to not be with other people...at least for a couple of months.
Aria always liked Jared and she felt this insane attraction. But his actions 5 years ago made her believe that he didn't want her. She thought that, like other people, he never saw her beyond her family's fame and money. Oh boy, how wrong she was. He did see her, but knew that if he took a step towards her nothing would be the same. At one point, none of them could resist the strong pull they felt.
The thing with these two is that none of them trust them easily. Jared felt this insane pain after his grandfather's death, the desperation about his farm going down. Aria was like a balm for his soul. The one that makes him believe in himself and love her fiercely. After a while, she felt that she could trust him and, because of that, we finally saw why she went off the rail years ago, and I felt so much for her. Because it turns out her family is the one at fault and, to me, they don't deserve forgiveness.
I also love the fact that we've seen characters from the previous books. They both had loyal friends at their site, which was so nice.
When it comes to the chemistry between them...OMG, it was so, so hot. Reading the love scenes made my heart pound. They literally couldn't keep their hands off each other. There was so much smut and spice, with a drop of kink 🥵.
Now, I can't wait to read Callie and Lewis love story.
Overall, I loved reading "Skies over Caledonia" ♥️.
May 11, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’ve been looking forward to Allegra’s story ever since we met her in book 1! I Can say that this one did not disappoint at all! Allegra and Jared are so hot together! 🔥 I love the marriage of convenience trope in this highland setting with these two characters we’ve been seeing in the background all along!
Listen! Jared had me in a chokehold with those MY WIFE moments! I was an absolute puddle each time he said it lol lemme just say, I’m a sucker for reformed playboy and though it’s not as extreme as Theo, he definitely made changes for Alle and I was here for how hard he fell!
Allegra! My bbygirl! I knew she had been through a lot but phew! She is a survivor! Loved her story and how she’s found herself and her passion for art. Her and I are twin flames! Her and Jared made me so happy. I was ready to fight anyone about my girl!
I loved all the cameos from the previous characters and I thought it was a really good wrap up to the series! I highly recommend Skies over Caledonia to my romance lovers! I loved this whole series though so I’d encourage you to give it a go though this book can be read as a standalone! A big thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the audiobook for review! It was truly wonderful!
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️
I’ve been looking forward to Allegra’s story ever since we met her in book 1! I Can say that this one did not disappoint at all! Allegra and Jared are so hot together! 🔥 I love the marriage of convenience trope in this highland setting with these two characters we’ve been seeing in the background all along!
Listen! Jared had me in a chokehold with those MY WIFE moments! I was an absolute puddle each time he said it lol lemme just say, I’m a sucker for reformed playboy and though it’s not as extreme as Theo, he definitely made changes for Alle and I was here for how hard he fell!
Allegra! My bbygirl! I knew she had been through a lot but phew! She is a survivor! Loved her story and how she’s found herself and her passion for art. Her and I are twin flames! Her and Jared made me so happy. I was ready to fight anyone about my girl!
I loved all the cameos from the previous characters and I thought it was a really good wrap up to the series! I highly recommend Skies over Caledonia to my romance lovers! I loved this whole series though so I’d encourage you to give it a go though this book can be read as a standalone! A big thank you to the author for an advanced copy of the audiobook for review! It was truly wonderful!
June 19, 2024
4.5 Stars!
I don't ever want this series to end!
I don't ever want this series to end!
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