First Time with a Highlander

Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands #2

by Gwyn Cready

Serabeth's scoundrel of a fiancé is dead, and her only solution is to present her indignant and handsome 21st century captive as a pretend husband...if she can keep her mind on the business at hand.

What do you get when you imbibe centuries-old whiskey—besides a hangover the size of the Highlands? If you're twenty-first century ad exec Gerard Innes, you get swept back to 18th-century Edinburgh and into the bed of a gorgeous, fiery redhead. Gerard has only a foggy idea what he and the lady have been up to…but what he does remember draws him into the most dangerous and exhilarating campaign of his life.

Serafina Seonag Fallon's rascal of a fiancé has left her with nothing, and she's determined to turn the tables. If she can come up with a ringer, she can claim the cargo he stole from her. But the dashing man she summons from the future demands more than a night, and Serafina finds it easier to command the seas under her feet than the crashing waves he unleashes in her heart.

Genres: Romance, Time Travel, Historical Romance, Historical, Historical Fiction, Fantasy, Scotland

384 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published October 6, 2015

About the author

Gwyn Cready is a RITA Award-winning romance novelist. She's been called "the master of time travel romance." She lives in Pittsburgh.

Reviews

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

***Review posted on The Eater of Books! blog***

First Time with a Highlander by Gwyn Cready
Book Two of the Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: October 6, 2015
Rating: 4 stars
Source: ARC sent by the publisher

***Warning: this is an adult book, and for the eyes of mature readers***

Official Summary:

She needs a man-but only for a night

What do you get when you imbibe centuries-old whiskey-besides a hangover the size of the Highlands? If you're twenty-first century ad exec Gerard Innes, you get swept back to 18th-century Edinburgh and into the bed of a gorgeous, fiery redhead. Gerard has only a foggy idea what he and the lady have been up to...but what he does remember draws him into the most dangerous and exhilarating campaign of his life.

Be careful what you wish for...

Serafina Seonag Fallon's scoundrel of a fiancé has left her with nothing, and she's determined to turn the tables. If she can come up with a ringer, she can claim the cargo he stole from her. But the dashing man she summons from the future demands more than a night, and Serafina finds it easier to command the seas under her feet than the crashing waves he unleashes in her heart.

What I Liked:

I requested this book from the publisher on a whim - mostly because I absolutely LOVE the cover, and because I love Scottish historical romance novels (I could list a dozen!). I've not read Just in Time for a Highlander, book one of this series, but as with most historical romance series, this one is a companion series, so I didn't feel the need to read it. I may go back and read book one though, as I am now very interested in those two characters' story!

Serafina needs a man who looks like her ex-fiance Edward Turnball, so that the man will sign over the cargo that Edward stole from her back to her. Her friend Undine is something like a witch, so when Undine leaves herbs and a potion, Serafina mixes a potion and BAM! Gerard Innes from twenty-first century New York is now in the eighteenth century, in Edinburgh. At first Gerard is furious, but he discovers that he likes 1706 Edinburgh, grumpy Duncan, mischievous Abby, contemplative Undine... and fiery Serafina. Serafina is only trying to get her cargo back - falling for the man from another time and country wasn't the plan. But Gerard is seductive and captivating, and just what Serafina needs,

This historical romance was different from any other I've read, in that it deals with a bit of time-travel. It's not centered around time-travel, but clearly time-travel has a huge impact on the book. Time-travel novels are hit or miss for me, so I'm glad time-travel isn't overwhelmingly present. It is, but it isn't. It becomes more of an issue towards the end of the book. The paranormal aspect is big in this book, as Undine is something like a witch. Gerard is pulled from the twenty-first century into the eighteenth century - that is magic!

I LOVE Gerard. He is hilarious! He is so modern and such a guy, yet he's so complex. He's a lady's man for sure, charismatic and charming, a big flirt ("seducer" in 1706 terms). He has a wonderful sense of humor, and he is so easy to love. He transitions into 1706 remarkably well (too well?), and after his initial shock and anger, he does what he can to help Serafina. Did I mention that he is quite the flirt? I love this guy!

Serafina is a complicated woman. Her fiancee "ruined" her, they became lovers but weren't married, but then he stole her cargo, which is basically her life's worth. She has nothing, not a penny to her name, so she will steal back the cargo if she has to. Serafina is fierce and fearless, strong and strong-willed, refusing to let anyone boss her around, speak for her, or save her. Honestly, she has a lot of pride, and sometimes, it gets in the way. But she sees this. Serafina is a likable protagonist, and I think she and Gerard are a great match.

The story is a bit of a wild goose chase - Serafina is trying to get her stolen cargo turned back over to her (stolen by her ex-fiance). But then the cargo goes missing! Serafina and Gerard, as well as Abby, Undine, and Duncan, all play important roles in finding the cargo. Serafina sneaks around (and pisses off Gerard in the processes), and stops at nothing to uncover an even more complex scheme going on, involving her former fiance and noblemen.

I like the romance. It's not as explicitly steamy as I'm used to, in historical romance novels. I kind of think this is a negative, but then, the scenes that are supposed to be steamy are not terrible. They're just abbreviated, so even if you can't deal with super steamy scenes in adult romance novels, you'll be able to handle this book's scenes. Super mild, guys. But the romance is sweet. Gerard and Serafina do NOT want to fall for each other, but they certainly like each other in certain physical ways. They bicker and fight and Gerard makes light of anything remotely funny. I like their relationship, and the progression of the romance.

The world-building is great, very detailed and well-constructed. And it needs to be, as we have a twenty-first century male lead in an eighteenth century world. We NEED to obviously see the differences between the two worlds, Cready did a great job with the world and setting.

I really liked this book! It's lovely and a very fun story. The ending is satisfying and fulfilling. I've not read any of Cready's other books, but I will change this!

What I Did Not Like:

I wanted the steamy scenes to be more steamy. The references to the intimate interactions are super mild. I mean, there is nothing specifically wrong with this, but I am soooo used to really fiery hot chemistry and romance in a historical romance novel! This is my only complaint, I think.

Would I Recommend It:

I liked this book a lot, and I would recommend it! Any historical romance fans out there - you will enjoy this one. It delivers on the Scottish setting, hot accents, swoony males, and several strong females (including the female lead). So much to like about this book!

Rating:

4 stars. I will definitely be looking out for the next book in this series! Sooo far away... but that gives me time to go back and read book one, Duncan and Abby's story!

[Lover of Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

This review was originally posted on Addicted To RomanceWelcome to Sourcebooks Casablanca exclusive Tour which includes a special excerpt and a giveaway. Now this giveaway is offering of a hard copy of the first book in the series: Just in Time For A Highlander. As long as you leave a comment with your email, you will be entered into the giveaway. Then the winner will receive a email and be mailed the copy right away. The one stipulation from the publisher is you need to be a U.S. Resident. So what do you have to lose right?



First Time With A Highlander is the second book in this series, and this is also my first time reading this author and for the most part I really liked this one. I tend to be a bit picky on time travel themed romances, but I really loved the setting for this one. The story is quite entertaining and the characters are what make it so fun for the reader. We have a hero, that works in marketing and advertising. Our heroine is a Scottish lass looking to get her property and cargo back from her ex fiancee. And through a series of unfortunate decisions, Gerard is brought to the 1700's. Gerard though, he was fun and quite a lovely hero. He takes everything in stride, even going back in time doesn't seem to alter him much. What was most fun about this book, is the ways he goes about helping others in the town with their businesses. It shows how much he loves what he does and he loves helping people along the way too.

Our heroine is a bit of a mischief maker, she can be a bit spirited and proud. She isn't shy about anything. I loved the way these two come together, because its so unexpected for both of them but they just click from the beginning they have spark. This was a lovely romance and I really enjoyed the tone of the story. I did have trouble with the flow of it. I had a difficult time keeping my focus on the story, and my mind kept wandering. I don't know if that was just me or the writing itself. But for the most part I really had a ball of fun and giggles with this one. I am interested in trying out some of her other titles. I definitely want to try out the first book, especially since the main couple from that story, play a role in this book. So I am definitely wanting to read their story after seeing them in action and involved in this book so much. This is a story that is packed with adventure, magic and mystery.



My poor heroine. Writers love to put their characters in uncomfortable situations. This scene takes place near the beginning of the book, immediately after Serafina, the down-on-her-heels eighteenth-century owner of a small shipping concern, and Gerard, a twenty-first century ad man playboy, have awakened to find themselves in bed together, much to their mutual surprise. Serafina is not quite as surprised as Gerard, given that she knows she, er, borrowed some magic herbs from her spell-casting friend to summon a man to help her regain her fortune, but she doesn’t clearly remember all that has happened between them, especially the ring she’s found on her finger, and she must explain how she happened to have a naked man coming out of her room to Duncan, the hero of the first book in the Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series, Just in Time for a Highlander, who has become a de facto older brother to her.

***

Nearly deafened by the blood roaring in her ears, Serafina stilled the hand in her pocket and fought to remain calm.

“What is it?” Duncan eyed her suspiciously.

“I bit my tongue.”

He cocked his head farther.

“It’s fine now.”

The other man had seen something, though what, she wasn’t sure. He looked at her as if she were a Highland ox whose horns had sprouted thistles. All she remembered clearly about the night before was that he had appeared to her sometime after she’d first sipped the adulterated whiskey, though he’d been no more than a shade, his translucent image waxing and waning like mist on a loch. Wide jaw, the shoulders of a smith, hair as gold as a wagtail’s breast—the man was no trouble on the eyes. The more she drank, the clearer his image had become—though the foggier her apprehension of it—until at last she’d slipped into a thick, hibernating sleep, like a child after a summer fair, floating through hazy, happy dreams filled with random glints of remem­bered pleasure.

But the waking glints, beginning to arrive with increased regularity, were stirring an emotion closer to concern than pleasure. The man’s hand, running lightly down her back. A hurried run down a dark dock. Tugging the waist of a man’s breeks—beautiful wool breeks, whose rich, gray fabric caressed her fingers, as soft as the fur of a baby rabbit.

She couldn’t stop herself. Her eyes flew to the man’s breeks. Oh, God! Gray wool!

When she looked up, he was looking right at her. Her cheeks exploded in flames.

How could any of this have happened without her remembering it? The answer, she told herself, is because it didn’t.

But the ring…

She wriggled her fingers in her pocket, desper­ately hoping the solid, immutable gold was gone. But it wasn’t.

 

[Beth · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Time with a Highlander brings us a business advertising mogul who finds himself swept back in time to 1700 Scotland. Not only does Gerard wake up in the past but he is buck naked in bed with the beautiful Serabeth.

They must work together to traverse treachery, betrayal and the romantic tension that blooms between them.

I liked First Time with a Highlander. It has plenty of humor, romance and strong women leading the charge to save Scotland.

A quick, easy, entertaining read, First Time with a Highlander has it all..Kilts, Romance and Time Travel, where could you go wrong.

I received this ARC copy of First Time with a Highlander from SOURCEBOOKS Casablanca in exchange for a honest review. This book is set for publication October 6, 2015.

My Rating: 3 Stars

Written by: Gwyn Cready
Series: Sirens of the Scottish Borderland
Sequence in Series: 2
Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Publication Date: October 6, 2015
ISBN-10: 1492601969
ISBN-13: 978-1492601968
Genre: Scifi Historical Romance

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For Reviews and More Check out: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Making mistakes is the only way to learn, ye ken? Look at me. I’m the wisest woman in Scotland.”

This is a fun time travel romance which brings a man in the advertising world from America back to Edinburgh's past. A herbal concoction and spell are responsible, and there is a red-headed lady in the offing of course. He gets mixed up in intrigue over a ship's cargo.

I like the real-feeling characters and the time it takes for our traveller to realise and adapt to his new surroundings. The city is well described. Have fun.

I downloaded an e-ARC through Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a really fun time travel romance. It begins with Serafina complaining about her dastardly ex-fiancé, who seduced her, dumped her, and used her money to purchase a ship's cargo, leaving her broke and with a ruined reputation. If she has any hope of retrieving that cargo she needs a look-alike man to impersonate Edward and sign the cargo over to her. Enter Abby and Undine. Undine is something like a witch, whose potions have been known to bring just what is needed. She creates the potion but warns Serafina to be careful what she wishes for.

Gerard is a twenty-first century ad exec in Manhattan who has just landed a big account and is celebrating. He has quite the reputation as a ladies' man, and has invited a young lady to his room to continue the celebrating. She's a bit worse for drink, and he's actually a gentleman and puts her to bed to sleep it off. In the meantime, he samples some three hundred year old Scotch, then passes out himself. He wakes up the next morning not only in bed with a different woman, but also in a different city and a different century!

That first scene is hilarious, with Gerard completely confused about what happened, with some hazy memories that don't really make sense to him. Serafina is also confused and experiencing some of the same memories. Gerard is fortunate in that the first person he encounters turns out to be a fellow time traveler who can fill him in a little bit. Explantations are cut short when their activities of the previous night bring unwelcome visitors and he and Serafina have to make a run for it. This begins a highly amusing tale as Serafina and Gerard try to track down her cargo. There's more to the story than just the cargo, including some piracy, threats to Scotland's independence, spying and romancing.

I loved Serafina. She is feisty, independent and stubborn. She has made mistakes (letting Edward sweet talk her into sleeping with him before marriage, giving him access to her money) but she is doing her best to rise above it. Her reputation may be in tatters, but that isn't going to stop her. She has her plan and nothing is going to stop her from carrying it out, even a highly distracting man of the future.

Gerard was great. I thought he took to the eighteenth century pretty easily once he accepted that it had happened. He's quite a charming flirt, and it is fun to see him try to work that charm on Serafina. He also quickly becomes very protective of her, and finds himself in interesting situations because of it. At first he's determined to do what has to be done, so that Undine can send him home, but it doesn't take long for him to start thinking about staying longer.

Though neither wanted a relationship in the beginning, their connection is fast and deep. It was fun to see them bicker their way around Edinburgh as they tried to track down her cargo. They were also desperate to reconstruct their memories of the night before, especially to find out if they had truly married or simply faked it. They get themselves into and out of quite a few scrapes, frequently with the help of Gerard's fast thinking and creative mind. It was especially fun to see him put his twenty-first century marketing skills to work in 1706 Scotland. I really enjoyed the scenes with the baker and tavern owner, and the part with Gerard and the fancy chemises was a riot.

As his time in Scotland draws closer to its conclusion, Gerard realizes that he doesn't want to lose Serafina. He makes a few missteps in his ideas for their future, but eventually comes to the conclusion that he will do whatever he must to make her happy. Whether that means stepping aside for someone else, or changing his entire life is a decision that isn't easy to make. Serafina, too, doesn't want to lose Gerard, but she doesn't want to make him give up his family, fortune and friends. She also has to let go of her pride a little bit, and learn that it's okay to lean on someone for a little help now and then.

There were also a few interesting twists that came out in the final chapter. One involving a bottle of whisky and one involving a dress that turns out to be more than a dress. And finally one that will require a lesson in genetics and the weirdness that is time travel.

I'm looking forward to reading more in this series, including going back and reading the first one.

[Dianne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ahh, the days of olde, of kilts and maidens, living life to the fullest and those absolutely ridiculous laws that did not allow a woman to own property, even if it was really theirs. When Serafina’s fiancé died, everything she owned was in his name...and the clock is ticking for her to find a husband before she loses everything. Desperate, she enlists a special potion from a friend, and poof, next thing we know, she has brand new husband material, from a few hundred years in the future. Are they ready for each other?

Full of sass, great dialogue and characters with attitude, First Time with a Highlander by Gwyn Cready is a time traveling historical romance with an amusing chemistry between the two main characters. How will a refined up and coming businessman from New York in 2015 and a feisty woman from Scotland, centuries earlier handle this leap through time? Was it fate or a rare and very old scotch that brought these two together?

Lots of humor, lots of sensual heat, as well as a love that can be found, no matter the era. Not too heavy, but a light read at an easy pace. Do you like time travel romance? Men kilts? Strong women? This could be the series for you, seriously who doesn't like men in kilts?!

I received an ARC edition from Sourcebooks Casablanca in exchange for my honest review.

Series: Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands - Book 2
Publication Date: October 6, 2015
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
ISBN: 1492601969
Genre: Historical Romance | Time Travel
Print Length: 417 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com

[Bambi Unbridled · Rating 2 out of 5]

I really wanted to like this series. The covers are beautiful and I love time travel romance. Unfortunately I just could not connect with this story. I couldn't get interested in any of the characters, and I sometimtss felt like the dialogue jumped around and lost me.

Let's start with the hero, Gerard Innes, who is an advertising exec in modern-day New York. Gerard is also a manwhore with a fondness for whiskey. After drinking a 300 year old bottle of Kerr whiskey, Gerard is whisked (pun intended) from his bed (occupied by a drunk blonde) to land 300 years in the past in the bed of a fiery redhead named Serafina. Like Duncan from the first book, Gerard accepts that he time traveled with aplomb and little-to-no freaking out. For me, Gerard came across as a beta male, someone who would be classified as metro in modern times. That's just not my thing. Part of the appeal of highlander stories, for me anyway, are the manly men. With this concept of time travel, where the wimpy modern male is being sent back, just doesn't fuel my fantasy and imagination.

Moving on to our heroine, Serafina, the fiery redhaired lass. Serafina has been taken advantage of by her former betrothed who squandered all her inheritance and left her penniless. She approaches the witch Undine for a potion that will bring her a man to impersonate her ex, and steal a ship's cargo (which the fiancé purchased with Sera's money.) I didnt care for Serafina at all. Like Abby in the first book, she is the cause of yanking this man back in time, then she treats him poorly and acts like he is the inconvenience. For that matter, I do not like any of the female characters... they come across as bitchy and inconsiderate and somewhat cold.

I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Unfortunately it came off as a little too scattered for me to really connect and enjoy. 2 stars / 2 flames.

[Heather andrews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gerard makes naughty promises, and I like it, “when I get you in the captain’s cabin,” he said hoarsely, “I will show you what it means to yield, and in ways you haven’t dreamed—on your knees, on your back, bent over the railing of the balcony.” Jesus I loved the way he talked, "he kissed her neck. “Not among the rose bushes and their heady scent, with me buried between your thighs?” I liked this book Gerard was wrapped around his woman's fingers.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ms. Cready churns out another enchanting time-travel romance. The beginning plot is somewhat confusing and may cause some readers to lose interest. However, Gerard Innes is a worthy hero to fall in love with. Serafina and her cohorts are great fun! This story proves that love can be found anywhere and in any time.

[Frankie Ness · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fun time travel adventure! Gerard was hella funny, loved how he used contemporary references to his advantage in navigating 18th century Scotland.

[Travelisfers · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I love time travel and historical romance but this just did not do it for me. Not enough connection to modern times and when our MC Gerard meets another time traveler like him they hardly bond over it. I didn’t understand the story and it was just all over the place.

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rather not read from this author anymore. Found the the story meandering and illogical. I cannot imagine a person incredible enough to keep me in 1709 for the rest of my life.

[Dekaydreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much fun! Gwyn Cready adds such a quirky, humorous spark to romance, without losing any of the sizzle - it's been a while since I've enjoyed a book this much. New favorite found!

[Sam Pauley · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book was not as enjoyable as the first one. It took a long time for me to get into

[Claudia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgot that this book takes in a matter of few days so the romance felt rushed.

[Meagan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Not great. Had some funny parts but mostly a super confusing plot, fade to black sex scenes, and never explained how the guy is going to be able to see when his one pair of contacts are dead.

[Kiltsandswords · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes I request books just by looking at the author or the cover. I know, I know – never judge a book by it’s cover, but sometimes it leads to great results! I didn’t realize that this books was a time travel book and that it was the male lead who time travels! Such a delicious discovery!
I haven’t read previous books in this series, so I was playing some catch up with the characters and the history of their actions. I found Gerard just so interesting. I loved seeing history from his perspective. It helped that he had a guide in Duncan who had just come from the future himself.
The best part of this book for me was Gerard. He works in the world of advertising and the way he navigates 18th century Scotland was just so enjoyable. He puts his ad exec knowledge to great use. From the advice he gives the local pub to the baker with the fruit cake, it made the character so charming and likeable.
Gerard is having a tough time with things though. He has been hurtled back in time after drinking some really great whiskey. He has a beautiful woman in his bed and a lucrative partnership in his firm on the table. He wakes up in Scotland and with a strange woman in his bed – or more likely he is in hers.
Serafina (such a beautiful name) is in need of a strong man who resembles her snake of an ex-fiancee to help her out. Edward, the low life Englishman she was engaged to, has stolen more than just her virtue and reputation. He has taken her only inheritance and left her with nothing. She needs to relieve a ship of the cargo purchased with her funds…enter Gerard.
Since Serafina was already a ‘ruined woman’ there was not much stopping her from enjoying Gerard. I have actually never read a historical romance where the woman was so confident with what she wanted and went for it. The two have some hot and heavy moments that seem to take place high above the world.
Gerard became instrumental in helping Serafina retrieve her cargo and the story shifts to an adventure set at sea. I really liked this part of the book. Although Gerard was out of his element (and really, the whole time), he was able to make it an adventure. Throughout the whole book, Gerard was an excellent character. At first, his incredulous understanding that he had time travelled, to figuring out what was going on with Serafina, he made all of the plot come to life. While most historical romance novels centre around the female, to me, Gerard was the highlight of the story. His modern and MALE perspective of 18th century Scotland was at times humorous and definitely delightful.
I liked this book and want to continue to read what is going to happen as it seems the Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands books are closely linked. The next one will likely feature Udine, although I don’t know who will be time travelling as she seems to have her suitor lined up.

[Paranormal Romance · Rating 3 out of 5]

Left penniless and publicly shamed by accepting a man into her bed without marriage, the heroine was coned out of her inheritance and vows to see it returned. Her friend, a witch, offers her a spell to answer her own wish. She wants a man who looks like her ex fiancé for just one night so she can use him to retrieve her cargo off a ship.

In comes the hero. He's a playboy millionaire with a true kindness in his heart even if he goes through woman like hot cakes. Drinking a glass of powerful whisky with a blonde-haired woman, he wakes up the next morning in the bed of a red-haired woman who's just as astonished to see him. With little to no clue exactly what they did or did not do the previous night, together they stumble through the city for clues as to how to see him returned to his proper time. She finds him to be both an irritant as well as a charmer and is divided over her opinion of him. At first, she thinks he is rather useless and a shameful flirt but soon he begins to grow on her. She finds herself charmer indeed by his boyish personality and he turns out to be very quick on his feet and ready learner if a bit ignorant of the ways of the world. Then, she finds the ship her cargo possesses has come to port and decides to sneak on board.

The hero, fearing for her safety, joins her while posing at the ship’s owner and her ex fiancé. But things don't go to plan and the cargo is stolen from under them. Wrapped up in a conspiracy, the hero wants nothing more than to see the heroine happy. He fears his time is almost up and will soon be forced back to the future and though it kills him inside, he wants her to be cared for even if it means accepting the marriage proposal of another man. But the heroine is not some wilting violet and is free with her opinions and she knows her own mind and her own heart. She is stubborn and prideful but she'll never marry a man she does not love. She's confused about her feelings for the hero but with him she can see a devoted man and someone she can spend her life with.

I liked this book but there was just something off about it. It had a tone and an atmosphere that put me on edge and I don't know why. Maybe it was the rather confusing relationship the two main characters had or the fact that this series seems to enjoy making the male lead into a self-imposed slave to the heroine's every desire but I couldn't settle into the story. That being said, I thought the dialogue was witty and sharp and manner in which the characters spoke to one another especially in the beginning was hilarious. I can say that I loved the hero with his charm and playful demeanor that also made him into a talented salesman and a wiz at making money. Overall, I liked this book but it wasn't as amazing as the first in the series.

[Vikki Vaught · Rating 4 out of 5]

Vikki’s Musings

I have always enjoyed Time-Travel historical romances, and I also enjoy Scottish Romances as well. When I was sent an invitation to read this book from the publisher via Net-Galley in exchange for an honest review, I accepted right away. First Time with a Highlander is a light-hearted romp set in the early part of 18th century Scotland.

Serafina Fallon needs a man for the night to help her retrieve her ship and cargo from the scoundrel who wooed and bedded her with pretty promises he did not keep. Her friend dabbles in a bit of magic and brings Gerald Innes from the future, a man who resembles the man who has ruined her and holds her property.

Can a 21st century ad-executive adapt to the 18th century for the woman he loves, or can he convince Serafina to travel with him into the future?

As the story unfolds, I found myself chuckling and at times, laughing out loud. The pacing is good throughout the story, and the characters are engaging, drawing me into the book. The romance between Gerald and Serafina is sizzling, and I enjoyed it a great deal.

Serafina’s character is feisty, independent and doesn’t let the bad hand of cards dealt her, keep her down. After all, she has been ruined by her ex-fiancée and left virtually penniless. Through her naiveté, she made some bad decisions that have irrevocably changed her life, separating her from polite society. I loved her take control attitude when she sets out to get back what rightfully belongs to her.

Gerald is a fun-loving 21st-century man, who is a genesis at advertising. He has a bit of the swashbuckling character arch, making him a good rogue, giving me quite a few humorous scenes throughout the book. He is also willing to change his entire life for the woman he falls in love with.

This is an enjoyable read, but the plot is a bit convoluted and at times, hard to follow. While it’s commendable for Gerald to be willing to enter Serafina’s world, personally, I think she is much more suited to the 21st century than he is to the 18th. You’ll need to read this book to find out whether he stays or she goes! I shall not give that away.

I recommend First Time with a Highlander for anyone who enjoys a lot of humor sprinkled in with a good dose of romance. The sensual love scenes are not detailed, so this is an easy read for anyone who prefers less heat, yet a book with plenty of sexual tension. Ms. Cready does an excellent job with world building, which is so important when there is time-travel involved. This is a fun read, and I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I did. Happy reading!

[Les Chroniques Aléatoires · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is with pleasure that I dip back myself in the adventures of three beautiful and courageous Scottish women of the 18th century, which fight for their country and fall in love with the 21st century men. Gwyn Cready is regarded as being the queen of the traveltime romances (with Diana Gabaldon) and I understand completely why! Characters seasoned and attaching, an animated story full with bounces and a good spare of humour, without forgetting the sexy side to spend an excellent moment.

Since the first book, Serafina intrigues me and I wanted to know how she was going to end the problems that her ex-fiance engaged her in. Brave and honest with her friends, she is at the same time softness and brittleness, force and conviction. Malignant and resourceful, she do everything to finish her problems. She chooses, of course, the same solution as Abby by using an Undine's potion, which brings back the ideal man from another time.

It is there that Gerard Innes arrives, a Manhattan publicist with Scottish origins. Arrogant, charismatic and with a glibness which always enables him to overcome everything, we understand why the beautiful redhead has difficulty keeping her hands to herself. All the more when he shows tenderness and of honesty towards her, always ready to come to her rescue. Even if he is different from Duncan, not starting with the same facilities to integration, he is very quickly accustomed to his new era.

The intrigue seems simple in the beginning: Serafina needs a husband to recover what is her from right and they must find a solution to return Gerald to his place. Except that we could believe that the Gods are against them! After one memorable drunk night, none of them remember what they did and the indices tend to think that it was a evening of madness: steal of a boat, shotgun marriage, pursuit and somersaults between cloths, they do not know any more where to give head. And as if it were not sufficient, besides having to disentangle their memories and to carry out their main missions, they must give a hand to Undine for the National cause.

Gwyn Cready rewrites Scotland's past to her liking, with magic and well spiced romance, even if certain moments of misunderstanding and of turning in round tired me. There is a good rhythm all the same, not flat calm, there are always a revelation, a choice or an intrigue which make evolve the intrigue. I was charmed to see again Abby and Duncan, just as Undine, without forgetting the horrible Bridgewater. The conclusion lets suppose that the last volume will be epic and once more full with funny scenes.

[Sharon Tyler · Rating 3 out of 5]

First Time with a Highlander is the second book in the Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series by Gwyn Cready. This follow up to Just in Time for a Highlander is currently scheduled for release on October 6 2015. Although this is a sequel, the the story makes for a better read with the background of having read the first, you can easily catch on and enjoy this book without reading the first.

What do you get when you imbibe centuries-old whiskey-besides a hangover the size of the Highlands? If you're twenty-first century ad exec Gerard Innes, you get swept back to 18th-century Edinburgh and into the bed of a gorgeous, fiery redhead. Gerard has only a foggy idea what he and the lady have been up to, but what he does remember draws him into the most dangerous and exhilarating campaign of his life. Serafina Seonag Fallon's scoundrel of a fiancé has left her with nothing, and she's determined to turn the tables. If she can come up with a ringer, she can claim the cargo he stole from her. But the dashing man she summons from the future demands more than a night, and Serafina finds it easier to command the seas under her feet than the crashing waves he unleashes in her heart.

First Time with a Highlander is a solid sequel with great characters. Gerard is a modern man that pulls no punches. He has significant charm, and is used to getting his way all the time. He regularly uses his modern ideas of branding and marketing to help those around him, while garnering some profit for himself. However, he is not a wholly selfish man, he is dynamic and interesting as he tries to piece together what has happened, and what he would like to have happen for his future. Serafina is outspoken and unconventional, while trapped by the confines of the time. Everything she had, including her reputation have been taken from her by her former fiancee, and she is desperate to regain what is rightfully hers. Very little goes as planned, and there is plenty of adventure and suspense as the trail for her cargo leads her and Gerard into more trouble than anyone expected. I really found myself invested in the characters and eager to see how they found their happy ever after. I loved their bickering and heated interactions, although their more intimate moments were not as intense at their verbal exchanges.

First Time with a Highlander is a satisfying read, with a good cast of characters and use of time travel. My only real complaint on finishing the story is how much I want the next book so I can see how Undine finds her happy ending.

[Barb Lie · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Time With a Highlander by Gwyn Cready is the 2nd book in her Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series. This is a time travel Historical Romance, which takes place mostly in the 18th century (1706 Edinburg). Though the two main characters in the 1st book are part of this story, the book reads well as a standalone.

At the start, we meet Serafina Fallon, our heroine, who is in a bind financially. Her fiancée stole her cargo, leaving her with nothing. Both Abby and Undine (a witch?), whom we met in the first book, scheme to help her steal back her cargo. How? Undine will make a potion that worked to help Abby (in the first book) and bring a dead ringer for Serfina’s fiancée from the 21st century to help her claim back her cargo. Piece of cake……

Gerard Innes is a wealthy executive, who is a known womanizer. He wakes up after a night of wild partying in current day New York, and finds himself in a bed with a beautiful naked woman in 18th century Scotland.

Gerard adapts to his situation quickly, and immediately is attracted to the fiery redhead Serafina. Though Gerard is used to winning over most woman, Serafina is different. She is independent, strong, smart and determined to use Gerard to help her get back what she lost.

What follows is an adventure that will find them both putting themselves in danger to attempt to steal back the cargo. What is thought to be simple, turns into a major behind the scenes political scheme.

Serafina is fighting for her future, but despite her misgivings, she is also falling for Gerard. She knows he will leave soon, since he was meant to help for a day or two. Now she must protect her own life, as well as her heart. Gerard is between a rock and a hard place; he has fallen in love, and wants to bring Serafina back to the future with him, and the wealth that he has. But Serafina has her own pride, and will not leave her time. Will Gerard convince Serafina to go back with him? If not, would he stay in the 18th Century and try to amass his fortune again, with all his knowledge?

This was a good storyline, a nice romance, with some humor, and very likeable characters. However, I thought some of it was a bit slow, especially early on. I also felt it was a bit confusing and jumbled at some points. I would have liked it to be more cohesive. Overall, it was a good story, with a great theme. Who doesn’t like stories with men in kilts and that take place in Scotland, during the highlander days.

Barb
The Reading Cafe

[Nikita · Rating 3 out of 5]

Serafina Fallon's no-good, cheating ex-fiancee stole what was left of her dowry and now Serafina is determined to get it back by stealing the ship's cargo he purchased with her dowry money. Summoning a man from the 21st century is no easy feat, but he may just be the key to pulling off her hare-brained scheme. Smooth-talking creative exec Gerard Innes may not understand 18th-century Scottish customs, but his quick wit and charisma is just the thing Serafina needs when they find themselves trapped aboard her ex-fiancee's shipping vessel. Magic may have brought Serafina and Gerard together for a night, but it's up to fate and love to seal their bond and keep them together forever.

Serafina is very progressive, perhaps due to her friendship with the witchy Undine. She's headstrong, but loyal, and deeply committed to getting back what's rightfully hers. Some scenes (particularly the one after Serafina first arrives in the captain's cabin) made me uncomfortable; mainly because the subject matter made my skin crawl, but also because it was simply unbelievable! I just don't see any woman, much less an 18th century woman, willingly pull down her britches to allow some man she's never met spank her. Serafina just didn't really do anything for me. She's missing something as a character, but I can't quite put my finger on exactly what it is; that spark that turns a character from hum-drum to wow!

Gerard was a little different though, still missing the wow factor, but definitely a humorous character. He is supposed to be a modern man and with that comes all the believes and pop culture references of the 21st century. He adapted to being pulled through time remarkably well (a little too well, if I'm being honest) and his creative charisma and leadership skills allowed him to really thrive in this new land.

The romance between Gerard and Serafina is very sweet and their love scenes are quite mild. The romance builds through their verbal chemistry - two characters with sharp wit who enjoy banter and barbs.

This is the second in a series, but FIRST TIME WITH THE HIGHLANDER can be read as a stand-alone and is a comical historical romance with a surprisingly well-developed 18th century world.

Plot Twist Reviews [dot] Com

I received this book for free from the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

First Time with a Highlander by Gwyn Cready is a time travelling romance bursting at the seams with humor, hijinks, and most of all romance! This snappy historical set in the Highlands with Serafina, who's fiancé died and now owns nothing of her own. She needs a husband quick before she loses everything. She calls upon a friend to give her a potion and conger up a new husband. So he happens to be from the future-a few hundred years in the future.

Gerard, a businessman from 2015 New York, finds himself back in time to the 1700's in bed with a beautiful woman. It's obvious what had been taking place, only he doesn't know how he got there or how he can get back.

This story was pretty intriguing from the start. We have a heroine who is strong willed, bucks against society, and isn't shy in the least! She wants her property back but in this time, the women must be married to own anything. Thus the reason to have Gerard zapped back in time. Our hero, though, is no slouch either! He's a fun and laid-back guy who loves life to the fullest. He doesn't seem too rattled by his time travel predicament. I would think he would be more upset about it. He knows he wants to get home but decides there must be some cosmic reason for him to be there. Now the chemistry between Gerard and Serafina is sizzling. No matter the place, no matter the era, love will find a way. The biggest thing I was unprepared for is the humor. I was giggling a lot! That doesn't normally happen in a historical but it worked well here. My only beef? The flow of the story. It seemed to wander a bit or stall at times making my focus falter. I never got to the point of skimming as it always righted itself and I was drawn back in.

If you love historicals that feature strong characters and men in kilts, this may be for you! This is the first book I have read by Gwyn Cready and I enjoyed it. The time travel aspect was the attraction for me. Plus the hero and heroine felt relatable. There are many characters that play a role in this book and am looking forward to reading more of them in the Sirens of Scottish Borderlands series.

3.5 stars/3 flames

This book was given to me for the express purpose of an honest review. The rating and review are solely my opinions and in no way was I compensated.

[Jenn · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I'm going to be honest, the plot it highly unlikely, completely discounting the time traveling whiskey spells and people from the future, if they didn't exist at all this plot would still be incredible hard to believe. The author completely ignores most Highland romance protocols concerning propriety etc. You pretty much have to throw everything you know about Highland Romance out the window if you're not going to knit pick about this book. But... if you can manage to do that, manage to ignore the odd behaviors and thought processes in the characters of that time, I really think you'll love this book.

The story is absolutely hilarious. The characters are endearing and while the plot is unlikely it is still highly entertaining. The book is a bit heavy on the sex, but I didn't really mind (not that's I'd mind sex scenes in romance anyway, but I do prefer plot to hot and heavy) because the scenes around those hot and heavy sex scenes were engaging introducing new and interesting character and keeping the plot moving forward in an interesting and humorous way. There's a scene with these priests about being ruined that had me laughing so hard my kids came rushing in to find out what was wrong with me. It's definitely not the only humorous scene, but it was my favorite.

When I mention the unlikely character view points and actions for the time period I'm not referring to the men from the future, to be honest I'm actually torn between their outlooks. At many points the two are more in the old fashioned, men must protect silly women mindset common for the 1700s than the characters who are purported to live there. The characters from the future often seemed more old fashioned than the characters of the past. If you're looking for open minded forward thinking, push the envelope characters, it's not the interlopers you need to be watching but the three women who started this whole mess in the first place. Like I mentioned you really have to put aside expectations in the way people behave that you've learned from other novels in this genre.

If you're looking for fiction where you can pull things from the novel for your history paper, this probably isn't the book for you, but if you're just looking for an entertaining story that will make you laugh and smile, this one is highly recommended.

[Gaele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m obsessed currently with highlander stories: how can you miss as a lover of historic romance? And when you bring in characters like Serafina and Gerard, and a whole host of secondary characters that aid or thwart the path to love.

Engaged to a rather despicable man, who then left her and stole a valuable shipment, Serafina is penniless, friendless and angry. She can’t believe that she fell so completely for Edward, and lost everything in the process. Together with her new friends Abby and Undine, and Abby’s new love Duncan, she is determined to use any means to regain the cargo and reclaim her future.

In this story, it is Gerard who is transported back, and his consternation, reluctance to participate in Serafina’s plan and his attitude and approach are well-suited to Serafina’s often stubborn and outspoken approach. There is endless bickering, these two are very similar in personality and that makes for great fire, and neither is particularly interested in a ‘relationship’ per se, so it works to fuel the moments as the story progresses. A far deeper and more complex set of circumstances than we initially understand is behind the cargo, and as our couple, aided with the help of several friends, uncover the mystery the story moves forward nicely.

Cready has built this world and the plot with care, what starts as a wild goose chase soon firms up and solidifies into a wonderful tale that feels both of the moment and in the past. There’s a particular modernity that having a time-traveling character adds to a plot, and this story manages to mix the two outlooks and approaches nicely. With a touch of steam, although not bordering on the erotic, this story keeps readers happy.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

[Marilyn Rondeau · Rating 4 out of 5]

FIRST TIME WITH A HIGHLANDER by Gwen Cready is another interesting take on Time Travel - rather than portals it’s a bit of a witches brew!

Here you have a twenty-first century marketing executive Gerard Innes who get’s swept back to 18th century Edinburgh after he imbibed a 300 year old bottle of Kerr whiskey. Not only does he awake totally out of his time zone but he’s nude in bed with gorgeous, fiery redhead, with only a partial foggy memory of what they’d been up to.

Serafina Seonag Fallon’s miscreant of a fiancé has left her with nothing, but a bad reputation and stolen her dowery and she’s got a plan to turn the tables. If she can come up with a double of the dastardly fiancé she can claim the cargo he stole from her. But be careful what you wish for Serafina is quick to learn that Gerard Innis is much harder to command than a ship tossing on the seas.

As I’ve already said FIRST TIME WITH A HIGHLANDER was most definitely a most interesting tale, laced with humor, adventure, and sensualness all rolled into one delicious tale. Personally, I have always loved Time Travel partly because I have always thought to have born into the wrong era. Although, I can just imagine how Gerard felt coming from the classy Manhattan of today back into horse and carriage, and ox and cart days of old. No iPhones, no TV, no hot and cold running water - for that matter no pants under a kilt [although, he did find some comfort in that in a crows nest]!

Nope, no spoilers here other than the adventure and dangers Serafina and Gerard learned to deal with and Gerard’s way of getting around some of them were both hilarious and creatively written by a genius of this genre. While this is my first book by this author, I can certainly see why the excitement and fanfare of her writing has caused some to label her a “master of time travel romance”.

Marilyn Rondeau

[Rae Latte · Rating 5 out of 5]

First Time with a Highlander by Gwyn Cready is the second installment in her Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series. A time travel story that starts with a dram of whiskey to create the perfect man and a little bit of imagination.

Serafina Fallon needs a man if she’s going to take back what’s been stolen from her. Gerard Innes works in modern day advertising and has a way with words. When a night of celebration at work lands him in the 1700’s he questions the prized bottle of whiskey he drank the night before. If only he could recall what happened and who he was with, it’s all a bit foggy.

Unfortunately this modern day hero must meander in a world where survival is a daily concern. No modern medicine to fix what’s wrong and women who are waiting to be taken seriously. Gerard must decide if what he needs is back in the future or with him in the past. Will he rush back to his old life or pray to stay in Scotland.

Love is powerful and can make people do unimaginable things. What will Gerard do when he realizes that his love could be reciprocated if he stays? Can he leave his life and family behind?

From the cover to the small details etched into the readers imagination, Gwyn infuses modern day charm into the 1700’s vividly. These golden nuggets will be devoured when you read the journey these characters embark while immersed in the past.

While this book can be read as a stand alone you will want to read the series! Trust me – what these ladies cook up is entertaining, sexy and charming. You will wish your modern day man donned a kilt and picked up a sword to save your reputation and good name. Just make sure he pours you a good glass of whiskey first!

I received this ARC for a fair and honest review.

[Dot Salvagin · Rating 3 out of 5]

Gwyn Cready’s Time Travel romances are full of action, adventure, sex and laugh out loud moments and this one does not disappoint. Serafina asks her fortune teller friend Undine for help in claiming her stolen fortune. The help she gets is Gerard Innes from NYC in the twenty-first century. Gerard wakes up in Scotland in the 18th century and is hard pressed to figure out what is going on. Serafina whisks him away from danger almost immediately and the chase is on. It is she and Gerard running from the bad guys and then she and Gerard running to claim her fortune. The question seems to be if they will be successful before Gerard is taken back to his own time or even if they will survive in Serafina’s time. Peppered throughout the adventure is Gerard being the typical advertising executive even helping the tavern owner to increase his business. As Serafina and Gerard rely on each other their romance flourishes. Will Gerard choose to stay in Scotland with Serafina? Will it be possible? Will Serafina want to go with Gerard to The 21st century?

This is a light, fun time travel romance. It is very sexy and very funny. The side characters were introduced in Cready’s first book in this series, Just In Time For a Highlander. They are integral to this story but this is a standalone novel.

I received this book free for review from the publisher.
Also on my blog: http://ladeetdareads.wordpress.com

[Midwest Romantic · Rating 4 out of 5]

Originally posted on my blog Live Laugh & Love Books

I have to admit that I was drawn to this firstly because of its super amazing cover! Then I read the blurb and I thought that it very well might be an excellent book for me to read! I was not disappointed. This book is highly amusing with the Serafina giving Gerard a run for his money. They are such great characters and they mesh so well together! Serafina isn't afraid to take back what is hers and it is quite refreshing to see her putting Gerard in his womanizing place. This story is funny, fast and interesting with intrigue and romance all mixed together to give the reader an entertaining light read. The author does a fine job with character development and got me so interested in the back story to Duncan and Abigail that I am certainly going to be reading book #1 just to see what happened there!

Seriously add this to your ‘To Read’ list and pre order it now! Or just wait and look for it when it releases!!

*I received a complimentary copy of the book from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.*