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Highland, Georgia #1
A Highlander Walks into a Bar
The timeless romance, soaring passion—and gorgeous men—of Scotland comes to modern-day America. And the rules of love will never be the same…
Isabel Buchanan is fiery, funny, and never at a loss for words. But she is struck speechless when her mother returns from a trip to Scotland with a six-foot-tall, very handsome souvenir. Izzy’s mother is so infatuated by the fellow that Izzy has to plan their annual Highland Games all by herself. Well, not completely by herself. The Highlander’s strapping young nephew has come looking for his uncle…
Alasdair Blackmoor has never seen a place as friendly as this small Georgia town—or a girl as brilliant and beguiling as Izzy. Instead of saving his uncle, who seems to be having a lovely time, Alasdair decides he’d rather help Izzy with the Highland Games. Show her how to dance like a Highlander. Drink like a Highlander. And maybe, just maybe, fall in love with a Highlander. But when the games are over, where do they go from here?
“Laura Trentham creates a romance that is both extremely sensual and phenomenal.”
—Fresh Fiction
Isabel Buchanan is fiery, funny, and never at a loss for words. But she is struck speechless when her mother returns from a trip to Scotland with a six-foot-tall, very handsome souvenir. Izzy’s mother is so infatuated by the fellow that Izzy has to plan their annual Highland Games all by herself. Well, not completely by herself. The Highlander’s strapping young nephew has come looking for his uncle…
Alasdair Blackmoor has never seen a place as friendly as this small Georgia town—or a girl as brilliant and beguiling as Izzy. Instead of saving his uncle, who seems to be having a lovely time, Alasdair decides he’d rather help Izzy with the Highland Games. Show her how to dance like a Highlander. Drink like a Highlander. And maybe, just maybe, fall in love with a Highlander. But when the games are over, where do they go from here?
“Laura Trentham creates a romance that is both extremely sensual and phenomenal.”
—Fresh Fiction
311 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 30, 2019
100 people are currently reading
3356 people want to read
About the author
Laura Trentham
48 books909 followersAuthor of smart, sexy Southern contemporary romance, Regency historicals, & heartfelt Women's Fiction
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
Series include:
Sweet Home Alabama
Cottonbloom
Spies and Lovers
Heart of a Hero
Highland, Georgia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 483 reviews
August 1, 2019
This was such an entertaining read. Just perfect for summer when my head stubbornly refuses to concentrate on merits of literary fiction, but wants romance, romance, romance.... And I got plenty of it with two lovely Scottish-American couples exploring what home, tradition and love is under the hot Georgian sun.
Isabel (Izzy) Buchanan is such a contradiction in terms. A passionate redhead with totally unruly curly hair, wild imagination and a very practical job of an accountant. Isabel's father started Highland Games in his little southern town with a fair percentage of Scottish descendants. The festival was designed to help local businesses and bring in tourists, so you can see how important it is for Isabel to continue her family tradition after her father's death. She is usually helped by her mother, but this year Rose Buchanan might be a bit negligent in her duties of the festival orgaiser. She's just come back from Scotland accompanied by a guest. Gareth is the caretaker of a real Scottish manor and is a real gentleman as far as Rose is concerned. But Izzy's suspicions are only doubled, when another Highlander walks in and claims he is an old mate of Gareth's. It's just that he is way too young (Izzy's age) and heart-stoppingly gorgeous with his dark wavy hair, a hint of stubble and sexy brogue (okay, here I am picturing my favourite Dr Who, can you blame me?). We quickly find out that Alasdaire's based in London and works for an investment company. Are they here to trick Rose and Isabel out of their beloved Stonehaven property? and what would happen to the festival if the Buchanans were not there to safeguard the tradition?
I love the way the novel is written from two POVs and Alasdair's intentions are more similar to Isabel's than she can guess. He is here to protect his Uncle Gareth, his property and his heart.
As the events unfold, there are plenty of fun moments, tension building and yes, romance.
I enjoyed the first and the last third of the book a bit more than the hot and steamy scenes. Maybe I was looking more for humour and magic of attraction. Maybe the traditional me doesn't expect insta-love to last and I really was rooting for these two couples to overcome their geographic incompatibility and Izzy's lack of coordination (which resulted in a few accidents).
As it was, the few hours I spent with this book flew by too fast and I was sorry to leave Highland, Georgia. Fortunately, this is just the beginning and the second book is brewing somewhere (I wanted to say in Scottish moors, but I'm not sure where the author resides and comes up with her wonderful ideas). All we have to do is wait for the ancient magic and modern romance to make its appearance again.
Thank you to Edelweiss and St.Martin's for the review copy provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
Isabel (Izzy) Buchanan is such a contradiction in terms. A passionate redhead with totally unruly curly hair, wild imagination and a very practical job of an accountant. Isabel's father started Highland Games in his little southern town with a fair percentage of Scottish descendants. The festival was designed to help local businesses and bring in tourists, so you can see how important it is for Isabel to continue her family tradition after her father's death. She is usually helped by her mother, but this year Rose Buchanan might be a bit negligent in her duties of the festival orgaiser. She's just come back from Scotland accompanied by a guest. Gareth is the caretaker of a real Scottish manor and is a real gentleman as far as Rose is concerned. But Izzy's suspicions are only doubled, when another Highlander walks in and claims he is an old mate of Gareth's. It's just that he is way too young (Izzy's age) and heart-stoppingly gorgeous with his dark wavy hair, a hint of stubble and sexy brogue (okay, here I am picturing my favourite Dr Who, can you blame me?). We quickly find out that Alasdaire's based in London and works for an investment company. Are they here to trick Rose and Isabel out of their beloved Stonehaven property? and what would happen to the festival if the Buchanans were not there to safeguard the tradition?
I love the way the novel is written from two POVs and Alasdair's intentions are more similar to Isabel's than she can guess. He is here to protect his Uncle Gareth, his property and his heart.
As the events unfold, there are plenty of fun moments, tension building and yes, romance.
I enjoyed the first and the last third of the book a bit more than the hot and steamy scenes. Maybe I was looking more for humour and magic of attraction. Maybe the traditional me doesn't expect insta-love to last and I really was rooting for these two couples to overcome their geographic incompatibility and Izzy's lack of coordination (which resulted in a few accidents).
As it was, the few hours I spent with this book flew by too fast and I was sorry to leave Highland, Georgia. Fortunately, this is just the beginning and the second book is brewing somewhere (I wanted to say in Scottish moors, but I'm not sure where the author resides and comes up with her wonderful ideas). All we have to do is wait for the ancient magic and modern romance to make its appearance again.
Thank you to Edelweiss and St.Martin's for the review copy provided in exchange for an honest opinion.
February 11, 2020
Laura Trentham has written a fun, sweet, and entertaining romance. A little Scottish Southern fusion. Isabels mom Rose returns home to Georgia from Scotland with a BIG surprise. The surprise is not a plaid skirt, but a Scottish man who Isabell is instantly suspicious of. When his mate Alasdair shows up Izzy’s suspicion is deepened. Izzy is also stressed out because it seems as though the planning of the Highland games (an annual town event) has completely fallen to her with her mother preoccupied with the Scot. It appears as though a passion for a man in a kilt runs in the family as Izzy and Alasdair get better acquainted. But are these Scottish men’s intentions completely noble? And what will happen when secrets are revealed?
This book was pure romantic summer entertainment! I loved the Scottish Southern blend. I really loved Izzys character she was a strong, smart, and savvy woman with a heart of a dreamer! Alasdair wasn’t too bad himself and I liked how he encouraged Izzy. The story was fairly predictable as most romances are and there was definite Insta love. What made this a special read for me besides the accents and the location, was the charm and the whimsy of the story. This book just made me feel good, a good time with a few laughs! I’m still trying to figure out if I like a man in a kilt or not?
*** thanks St Martin’s Press for my copy of this book ***
This book was pure romantic summer entertainment! I loved the Scottish Southern blend. I really loved Izzys character she was a strong, smart, and savvy woman with a heart of a dreamer! Alasdair wasn’t too bad himself and I liked how he encouraged Izzy. The story was fairly predictable as most romances are and there was definite Insta love. What made this a special read for me besides the accents and the location, was the charm and the whimsy of the story. This book just made me feel good, a good time with a few laughs! I’m still trying to figure out if I like a man in a kilt or not?
*** thanks St Martin’s Press for my copy of this book ***
July 20, 2019
A Highlander Walks Into a Bar by Laura Trentham
Contemporary romance. Highland games in the Southern US.
Don’t we all just love a foreign accent? In this story two southern women fall for gentleman from Scotland. Izzy is concerned her mother is being taken advantage of but is still charmed by Alasdair, who has also traveled to the small southern town to check on his Uncle.
I absolutely adored Izzy. No filters. No artifice. A bit naive. She says what she is thinking which led to several laugh out loud moments for me.
“With her hair spread around her like a halo, she looked an angel, but he knew better. She was a tart-tongued, sexy dervish who had cast a spell over him.”
A charming romance. I love reading stories by this author. I’m always swept away with falling in love. 1st in the series.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
Contemporary romance. Highland games in the Southern US.
Don’t we all just love a foreign accent? In this story two southern women fall for gentleman from Scotland. Izzy is concerned her mother is being taken advantage of but is still charmed by Alasdair, who has also traveled to the small southern town to check on his Uncle.
I absolutely adored Izzy. No filters. No artifice. A bit naive. She says what she is thinking which led to several laugh out loud moments for me.
“With her hair spread around her like a halo, she looked an angel, but he knew better. She was a tart-tongued, sexy dervish who had cast a spell over him.”
A charming romance. I love reading stories by this author. I’m always swept away with falling in love. 1st in the series.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
August 5, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
The formality in her voice was nothing new. When he was four and home from his first day at preschool, his mum hadn’t asked him if he’d made friends or had fun. She’d asked him whether his day had been “satisfactory.”
Being a Southerner made her especially sensitive to jokes about no one wearing shoes or everyone using an outhouse or the lack of teeth. And absolutely no one of her acquaintance had married a cousin.
He’s done well for himself even if he does trail eau de manure. But you’d never be short of barbecue or bacon, so that’s a plus.
“I assume you’re well versed at your age, but responsible sex is important. I read in the London Times that the STD infection rate is actually highest amongst the elderly.” “Elderly?” Gareth’s shoulders bowed up and reminded Alasdair of a bull shown a red cape. “I can still put you flat on your back, laddie.”
“Do you have condoms?” “Even if I did have some, they probably would have expired.” “Disintegrated is more like. Ashes to ashes and dust to dust.”
He was so quintessentially all-American he should be handing out baseballs and apple pies to foreigners as they alighted from airplanes.
My Review:
Having both Scottish and Southern roots, I derived considerable pleasure from reading Laura Trentham’s latest offering, which kicks off a new series with a lively start. I was waffling on how to rate this pleasantly amusing tale and in going through my marked highlights I had to bow to Ms. Trentham’s sly and deft deployment of wry wit and sparkling levity. The storylines were slowly entangled and laced together gradually yet were pleasantly engaging and entertaining throughout. I was frequently smirking at Izzy’s foot in mouth tendencies and physical awkwardness as well as the verbal sparring and lively banter that sparked among the various characters, their quips and rejoinders were clever and snicker-worthy. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment and hoping for a similar “Hotty MacScottypants.”
The formality in her voice was nothing new. When he was four and home from his first day at preschool, his mum hadn’t asked him if he’d made friends or had fun. She’d asked him whether his day had been “satisfactory.”
Being a Southerner made her especially sensitive to jokes about no one wearing shoes or everyone using an outhouse or the lack of teeth. And absolutely no one of her acquaintance had married a cousin.
He’s done well for himself even if he does trail eau de manure. But you’d never be short of barbecue or bacon, so that’s a plus.
“I assume you’re well versed at your age, but responsible sex is important. I read in the London Times that the STD infection rate is actually highest amongst the elderly.” “Elderly?” Gareth’s shoulders bowed up and reminded Alasdair of a bull shown a red cape. “I can still put you flat on your back, laddie.”
“Do you have condoms?” “Even if I did have some, they probably would have expired.” “Disintegrated is more like. Ashes to ashes and dust to dust.”
He was so quintessentially all-American he should be handing out baseballs and apple pies to foreigners as they alighted from airplanes.
My Review:
Having both Scottish and Southern roots, I derived considerable pleasure from reading Laura Trentham’s latest offering, which kicks off a new series with a lively start. I was waffling on how to rate this pleasantly amusing tale and in going through my marked highlights I had to bow to Ms. Trentham’s sly and deft deployment of wry wit and sparkling levity. The storylines were slowly entangled and laced together gradually yet were pleasantly engaging and entertaining throughout. I was frequently smirking at Izzy’s foot in mouth tendencies and physical awkwardness as well as the verbal sparring and lively banter that sparked among the various characters, their quips and rejoinders were clever and snicker-worthy. I will be eagerly awaiting the next installment and hoping for a similar “Hotty MacScottypants.”
July 31, 2019
2.5 Stars
Just to be certain, I'm not sure if my reaction and rating to A Highlander Walks Into a Bar is another case of “it’s me, not the book” or something else. The premise of the book seemed like something I’d enjoy. And c’mon! A modern day, slightly aristocratic Scottish highlander in line to be a duke, traveling to Georgia to ensure his estranged Uncle isn’t being taken advantage of by his new style American girlfriend? That seems like something I can get behind.
You know what they say about the best laid plans, though.
I guess when it comes down to it, I really didn’t like Alasdair or Isabel, at least not in a way where I found myself connecting with either character. Their interactions seemed kind of one note as far as level of intensity and back and forth banter went, and I found myself bored at times. A lot of the time, if I'm being honest. Plus, the conflicts can be seen coming from a mile away and while normally that doesn’t bother me, it just managed to add to Alasdair’s overall mehness. Still, the writing is solid and the story well-paced and developed. There were parts of the story I found myself enjoying, but they mostly featured side characters.
I’ve been a fan of this author’s work in the past and I’ll continue to read her moving forward, but unfortunately this one didn’t really work for me.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
Just to be certain, I'm not sure if my reaction and rating to A Highlander Walks Into a Bar is another case of “it’s me, not the book” or something else. The premise of the book seemed like something I’d enjoy. And c’mon! A modern day, slightly aristocratic Scottish highlander in line to be a duke, traveling to Georgia to ensure his estranged Uncle isn’t being taken advantage of by his new style American girlfriend? That seems like something I can get behind.
You know what they say about the best laid plans, though.
I guess when it comes down to it, I really didn’t like Alasdair or Isabel, at least not in a way where I found myself connecting with either character. Their interactions seemed kind of one note as far as level of intensity and back and forth banter went, and I found myself bored at times. A lot of the time, if I'm being honest. Plus, the conflicts can be seen coming from a mile away and while normally that doesn’t bother me, it just managed to add to Alasdair’s overall mehness. Still, the writing is solid and the story well-paced and developed. There were parts of the story I found myself enjoying, but they mostly featured side characters.
I’ve been a fan of this author’s work in the past and I’ll continue to read her moving forward, but unfortunately this one didn’t really work for me.
ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest, voluntary review
August 3, 2019
As soon I saw the word Highlander, my finger was requesting this book.
What is not to love about the Scottish men I ask you?
Anyway, A Highlander Walks into a Bar is my first novel by Laura Trentham.
In this novel, our main character, Isabel "Izzy" Buchanan is preparing for the yearly Highland Games her father started many years ago. This for her is a way to keep the memory of her father alive. She usually has her mother, Rose to help her with it but this year, her mother has taken a trip to Scotland.
When Izzy goes to the airport to pick up her mother, she finds herself getting the surprise of her life. Her mother is not alone. She has a brought with her a Scottish man by the name of Gareth. Izzy is wary about his motives but she can't say no to inviting them to their home, Stonehaven after seeing her mother so happy and acting younger in spirit while around him.
Then, another Scottman comes to ring their doorbell. His name is Alasdair Blackmoor and he's here to see his "friend" Gareth. Alasdair works in London for an investment company. His real motive to come down to Highland, Georgia is to make sure his uncle Gareth is not been taking advantage of. Alasdair is not happy with his current life but he's not sure what can he do to change it. His vision becomes crystal clear once he meets Izzy and he realizes he needs to make major changes in his life if he wants to be happy.
I wish I had enjoyed this book more than I did. Here are some of the things which prevented me from loving it: The beginning was too slow for me. Most of the time, I couldn't connect with the two main characters. Their insta-love was a big turn off for me.
This is just my opinion. Hopefully, it doesn't deter you from reading it and enjoying it.
Cliffhanger: No
3/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by St. Martin's Press and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
August 1, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Izzy and Alasdair both lost their fathers at a young age but while Izzy adored her father, Alasdair didn't have the best relationship with his. Now the uncle Alasdair adored but let anger keep him away, has run off to America with a woman he barely knows and Alasdair wants to make sure he's not being taken advantage of.
Izzy has been her mother's companion and partner in keeping their family tradition alive ever since her father died and she can't believe her mom is bringing a stranger into the mix.
Izzy and Alasdair both want to protect the ones they love but are also learning they might need to live their own lives and take a chance on secretly held dreams.
Lord have mercy, her mother had brought back a six-foot, two-hundred-pound-plus souvenir from Scotland.
First in the Highland, Georgia series, I was entertained with how the author shook things up a bit with transporting the Highlands to Georgia, USA. Izzy and her mother organize the Highland Games every year for their Scottish obsessed town and consider it their honor and Izzy's birthright as it has been passed down through her father's family. I liked how the author showed how even though Izzy considered it her birthright, she also lost a bit of herself when she gave up certain dreams to help her mom and began to ignore her own wants and needs. I think this helped to explain why she was so wary of the man her mother brought home; the pain of thinking of her dad replaced but also her spot in her mother's life.
Alasdair had a whole slew of background baggage to unpack, the secrets about his dad he was still keeping from his mother, trying to live the life he thought his mother wanted for him to makeup for any pain she experienced in her marriage, and the guilt of not still having a relationship with his uncle. Since he traveled to America to keep track of his uncle, this was dealt with and worked through while I felt the issues with his mom needed more flushing out, it kind of gets rushed through at the end.
Alasdair and Izzy had an instant physical attraction that was followed with some cute moments brought on by Izzy's clumsiness and Alasdair's teasing. Their emotional connection wasn't as deep and strong as I typically like but they were flirty cute and transitioned well enough to sexy hot. Alasdair was put in a position by his uncle to omit some truths from Izzy which I thought was mild enough to not be too emotionally damaging but added angst to the storyline. The added plot of his work going behind his back, therefore making it seem like he was going behind Izzy's back, wasn't given enough pressure to add too much of an impact. The development, hiding, finding out by Izzy, and then resolution all happened in the background enough and was wrapped up quick enough to feel more like it clogged the story with unnecessary filler than add any hefty angst.
I thought the town and some it's characters could have actually been fleshed out more, I'm not sure I did feel the spirit of the town but I did think I understood our main characters enough, if not their friends. A Highlander Walks Into a Bar had cute moments and a pinch of angst, it works as an afternoon read but probably won't be a particularly memorable one. The epilogue hints at another highlander venturing into this southern Scottish town and I have a feeling Izzy's free spirit friend Anna is up next for some Scottish loving.
Izzy and Alasdair both lost their fathers at a young age but while Izzy adored her father, Alasdair didn't have the best relationship with his. Now the uncle Alasdair adored but let anger keep him away, has run off to America with a woman he barely knows and Alasdair wants to make sure he's not being taken advantage of.
Izzy has been her mother's companion and partner in keeping their family tradition alive ever since her father died and she can't believe her mom is bringing a stranger into the mix.
Izzy and Alasdair both want to protect the ones they love but are also learning they might need to live their own lives and take a chance on secretly held dreams.
Lord have mercy, her mother had brought back a six-foot, two-hundred-pound-plus souvenir from Scotland.
First in the Highland, Georgia series, I was entertained with how the author shook things up a bit with transporting the Highlands to Georgia, USA. Izzy and her mother organize the Highland Games every year for their Scottish obsessed town and consider it their honor and Izzy's birthright as it has been passed down through her father's family. I liked how the author showed how even though Izzy considered it her birthright, she also lost a bit of herself when she gave up certain dreams to help her mom and began to ignore her own wants and needs. I think this helped to explain why she was so wary of the man her mother brought home; the pain of thinking of her dad replaced but also her spot in her mother's life.
Alasdair had a whole slew of background baggage to unpack, the secrets about his dad he was still keeping from his mother, trying to live the life he thought his mother wanted for him to makeup for any pain she experienced in her marriage, and the guilt of not still having a relationship with his uncle. Since he traveled to America to keep track of his uncle, this was dealt with and worked through while I felt the issues with his mom needed more flushing out, it kind of gets rushed through at the end.
Alasdair and Izzy had an instant physical attraction that was followed with some cute moments brought on by Izzy's clumsiness and Alasdair's teasing. Their emotional connection wasn't as deep and strong as I typically like but they were flirty cute and transitioned well enough to sexy hot. Alasdair was put in a position by his uncle to omit some truths from Izzy which I thought was mild enough to not be too emotionally damaging but added angst to the storyline. The added plot of his work going behind his back, therefore making it seem like he was going behind Izzy's back, wasn't given enough pressure to add too much of an impact. The development, hiding, finding out by Izzy, and then resolution all happened in the background enough and was wrapped up quick enough to feel more like it clogged the story with unnecessary filler than add any hefty angst.
I thought the town and some it's characters could have actually been fleshed out more, I'm not sure I did feel the spirit of the town but I did think I understood our main characters enough, if not their friends. A Highlander Walks Into a Bar had cute moments and a pinch of angst, it works as an afternoon read but probably won't be a particularly memorable one. The epilogue hints at another highlander venturing into this southern Scottish town and I have a feeling Izzy's free spirit friend Anna is up next for some Scottish loving.
July 30, 2019
DNF at 30%
Sadly this wasn’t the success I was hoping for and that largely fell on Isabel’s shoulders who, rather than finding fiery and funny as the blurb suggests, I found immature, confrontational, rude and just not my kinda girl.
On a plus side, I adored Gareth—not even the hero, but love me a Scottish silver fox—however even he wasn’t enough to persuade me to persevere any further which is a shame as I’ve loved so many of Trentham’s books in the past.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
Sadly this wasn’t the success I was hoping for and that largely fell on Isabel’s shoulders who, rather than finding fiery and funny as the blurb suggests, I found immature, confrontational, rude and just not my kinda girl.
On a plus side, I adored Gareth—not even the hero, but love me a Scottish silver fox—however even he wasn’t enough to persuade me to persevere any further which is a shame as I’ve loved so many of Trentham’s books in the past.
Copy received courtesy of St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
June 10, 2019
This was a fun romance set in my current home state of Georgia, so I felt right at home in the setting and landscape descriptions, and especially the temperatures outside this time of year. It starts off with Isabel picking her Mom up at the airport, and she’s brought back quite a surprise from her trip to Scotland...a man named Gareth. She’s immediately suspicious of this guy and his intentions, but he’s taken back to their property, Stonehaven.
She’s got too much to do getting ready for their yearly festival in several weeks, and she needs to get back at it, hopefully with her Mom’s help. Then a couple of days later, a younger man shows up looking for Gareth, another Scotsman, though with a different accent, more refined. He says his name is Alasdair Blackmoor and he’s an old friend of Gareth’s and as he was in the States on business, he thought he’d look him up. Izzy just knows she doesn’t trust either of them, and won’t until she finds out what they are really doing in Highlands.
This works well as a romance and with the southern setting meshing with the Scottish thing, kind of melds together. There is quite a tension/ heat between Alasdair and Izzy that makes it interesting to keep on reading, and of course background machinations that keep it all percolating and things edgy.. Advance electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Laura Trentham, and the publisher.
My BookZone review on my blog:
https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
She’s got too much to do getting ready for their yearly festival in several weeks, and she needs to get back at it, hopefully with her Mom’s help. Then a couple of days later, a younger man shows up looking for Gareth, another Scotsman, though with a different accent, more refined. He says his name is Alasdair Blackmoor and he’s an old friend of Gareth’s and as he was in the States on business, he thought he’d look him up. Izzy just knows she doesn’t trust either of them, and won’t until she finds out what they are really doing in Highlands.
This works well as a romance and with the southern setting meshing with the Scottish thing, kind of melds together. There is quite a tension/ heat between Alasdair and Izzy that makes it interesting to keep on reading, and of course background machinations that keep it all percolating and things edgy.. Advance electronic review copy was provided by NetGalley, author Laura Trentham, and the publisher.
My BookZone review on my blog:
https://wordpress.com/post/bookblog20...
May 6, 2020
I won this book in exchange for an honest review.
Surprisingly I actually really liked this book. I say surprisingly because I am not one for anything romance. This book had the perfect amount of romance and wit to make it readable for people like me who can’t stand the mushy genre lol! I’m glad I didn’t judge this book by the cover and give up like I considered doing in the beginning after pulling it off the shelf and seeing the man in the kilt on the front! Haha
Surprisingly I actually really liked this book. I say surprisingly because I am not one for anything romance. This book had the perfect amount of romance and wit to make it readable for people like me who can’t stand the mushy genre lol! I’m glad I didn’t judge this book by the cover and give up like I considered doing in the beginning after pulling it off the shelf and seeing the man in the kilt on the front! Haha
July 30, 2019
I think I shot myself in the foot a bit with this read because I had self-hyped it such a lot. I loved the title, I loved the synopsis and the cover is pretty cute too. However, for me, this was just a cute, okay read; it didn’t blow me away like I wanted. That said, I want to tell you what worked and some of things that didn’t.
Firstly, it’s important to understand going into this that it is set in the US not in Scotland, if you’ve read the synopsis, you’ll know this. It is a story of two couples coming together in a mirrored way. Rosie and Izzy (mother and daughter) run an estate that is a piece of Scotland in Georgia, US. Izzy’s mother returns from a Scottish trip with a highlander as a ‘souvenir’. Soon enough, his nephew Alasdair comes to investigate who has captured his uncle’s interest and what her intentions are. From this, Izzy and Alasdair find themselves thrown together for practical reasons.
I found Rosie and Gareth’s story incredibly cute, even though their story was very much in the background. The secrets and lies were less appealing and made for something of a predictable plot point. I found Izzy to be a character that was rather difficult to get to know and this was a barrier to liking her overall. Alasdair was infinitely more likeable. The chemistry between Izzy and Alasdair made for the best part of the book.
My main issue with this story was pacing and the slow sense of the story moving along. I can’t quite put my finger on why I felt a difficulty pushing through but it was pretty consistent. I’ve read and loved Laura Trentham’s books before, so I know this isn’t her normal style of pacing.
The story wrapped up in an amusing and sweet way, also laying the foundations for book two. I am undecided whether I will continue with this series.
Thank you to netgalley and St Martins Press for the review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities Blog here.
Firstly, it’s important to understand going into this that it is set in the US not in Scotland, if you’ve read the synopsis, you’ll know this. It is a story of two couples coming together in a mirrored way. Rosie and Izzy (mother and daughter) run an estate that is a piece of Scotland in Georgia, US. Izzy’s mother returns from a Scottish trip with a highlander as a ‘souvenir’. Soon enough, his nephew Alasdair comes to investigate who has captured his uncle’s interest and what her intentions are. From this, Izzy and Alasdair find themselves thrown together for practical reasons.
I found Rosie and Gareth’s story incredibly cute, even though their story was very much in the background. The secrets and lies were less appealing and made for something of a predictable plot point. I found Izzy to be a character that was rather difficult to get to know and this was a barrier to liking her overall. Alasdair was infinitely more likeable. The chemistry between Izzy and Alasdair made for the best part of the book.
My main issue with this story was pacing and the slow sense of the story moving along. I can’t quite put my finger on why I felt a difficulty pushing through but it was pretty consistent. I’ve read and loved Laura Trentham’s books before, so I know this isn’t her normal style of pacing.
The story wrapped up in an amusing and sweet way, also laying the foundations for book two. I am undecided whether I will continue with this series.
Thank you to netgalley and St Martins Press for the review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities Blog here.
May 30, 2019
So very enjoyable! Alasdair and Isabel were so well suited; each trying to protect their parental figure from possible harm, stuck in their everyday life and dreaming of something different. Little did they know what they were looking for was each other. I loved how serious Highland, Georgia took their Scottish heritage and the fact that Gareth and Alasdair fit right in. I was also glad that when the secrets were revealed. Isabel and Rose did not drag it out, but instead used their head and their hearts and realized where the gentlemen were coming from.
August 16, 2019
Yes, the title sounds like the beginning to a bad joke. And, if you don’t pick up this Romantic Comedy and read it, the jokes on you.
I adored this story. It had everything that you could possibly want in a story. A little love, a little romance, a little mystery and a lot of laughs. You couldn’t help but laugh at Izzy and her mouth. Yep, she just lets things out … sometimes at the most inopportune times. You couldn’t help but laugh at Alasdair as he became acclimated to Highland, GA. You were definitely guessing as to what would happen when the truth about both Alasdair and Gareth. And, romance … well, it was a somewhat unorthodox but it was there.
I loved all the antics leading up to the Highland games and how everything finally came together for Isabel and Alasdair until the truth comes out. Then the real fun begins. Alasdair was wonderful and, with some help from his new-found friends, found a way to get Izzy to forgive him for his actions. All the characters in this story were wonderful. Besides Alasdair and Isabel, Gareth and Rosie were just the cutest. Holt was a true southern bean farmer or eggplant farmer or whatever farmer Alisdair called him. I wasn’t sure how to take Fiona until the end when she truly came through for both Alasdair and Gareth. Anna, Dr. Jameson and the rest of the people of Highland were open, honest and true to a fault.
But, what I loved most about this story was how Laura Trentham built her characters, let us see all of their flaws and brought us through their total transformation to who they were in the end. How she has Alasdair questioning his choices in life. How she brought Izzy through accepting her mother moving on after her father’s passing. And, the epilogue was just wonderful. I wonder who Iain is going to fall in love with. What a wonderful and comical story A Highlander Walks into a Bar was. Laura Trentham brought us interesting characters, a story about love and trust and a wonderful HEA.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
I adored this story. It had everything that you could possibly want in a story. A little love, a little romance, a little mystery and a lot of laughs. You couldn’t help but laugh at Izzy and her mouth. Yep, she just lets things out … sometimes at the most inopportune times. You couldn’t help but laugh at Alasdair as he became acclimated to Highland, GA. You were definitely guessing as to what would happen when the truth about both Alasdair and Gareth. And, romance … well, it was a somewhat unorthodox but it was there.
I loved all the antics leading up to the Highland games and how everything finally came together for Isabel and Alasdair until the truth comes out. Then the real fun begins. Alasdair was wonderful and, with some help from his new-found friends, found a way to get Izzy to forgive him for his actions. All the characters in this story were wonderful. Besides Alasdair and Isabel, Gareth and Rosie were just the cutest. Holt was a true southern bean farmer or eggplant farmer or whatever farmer Alisdair called him. I wasn’t sure how to take Fiona until the end when she truly came through for both Alasdair and Gareth. Anna, Dr. Jameson and the rest of the people of Highland were open, honest and true to a fault.
But, what I loved most about this story was how Laura Trentham built her characters, let us see all of their flaws and brought us through their total transformation to who they were in the end. How she has Alasdair questioning his choices in life. How she brought Izzy through accepting her mother moving on after her father’s passing. And, the epilogue was just wonderful. I wonder who Iain is going to fall in love with. What a wonderful and comical story A Highlander Walks into a Bar was. Laura Trentham brought us interesting characters, a story about love and trust and a wonderful HEA.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
July 31, 2019
A Highlander Walks Into A Bar, Laura Trentham had me with that title and kept me with a witty double romance that just took on a life of its own.
Isabel’s mom goes to Scotland and comes home with a Scotsman and not just any Scotsman but a laird…but no one knows he’s got a title. They all think her Scotsman was just the help for the castle and not the owner. The lairds nephew, Alasdair, fears the Buchanan’s are out for his uncle’s money and follows his uncle to Highland, Georgia.
The Buchanan’s are known for their Georgia Highland games, so Alasdair decides to take on the spit fire known as Izzy and show her what a real Scot is made of.
I’m sure you can see what mayhem might come out of Scottish Lairds taking on Georgia’s Peaches. A Highlander Walks Into A Bar is a fun, fast and filled with kilt wearing men in the great state of GA with romance running as hot as the summer temps the state is known for.
I received this ARC copy of A Highlander Walks into a Bar from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review. A Highlander Walks into a Bar is set for publication July 30, 2019.
Laura Trentham
FRONTLIST | On Sale Date: July 30, 2019
9781250315021, 1250315026
E-Book
$6.79 USD, $8.99 CAD
Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy
336 pages
Series: Highland, Georgia (#1)
Isabel’s mom goes to Scotland and comes home with a Scotsman and not just any Scotsman but a laird…but no one knows he’s got a title. They all think her Scotsman was just the help for the castle and not the owner. The lairds nephew, Alasdair, fears the Buchanan’s are out for his uncle’s money and follows his uncle to Highland, Georgia.
The Buchanan’s are known for their Georgia Highland games, so Alasdair decides to take on the spit fire known as Izzy and show her what a real Scot is made of.
I’m sure you can see what mayhem might come out of Scottish Lairds taking on Georgia’s Peaches. A Highlander Walks Into A Bar is a fun, fast and filled with kilt wearing men in the great state of GA with romance running as hot as the summer temps the state is known for.
I received this ARC copy of A Highlander Walks into a Bar from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review. A Highlander Walks into a Bar is set for publication July 30, 2019.
Laura Trentham
FRONTLIST | On Sale Date: July 30, 2019
9781250315021, 1250315026
E-Book
$6.79 USD, $8.99 CAD
Fiction / Romance / Romantic Comedy
336 pages
Series: Highland, Georgia (#1)
May 8, 2019
A Highlander Walks Into A Bar wasn't quite what I expected. While the story is a light easy read, it's also slow going. It's easy to lose interest because of the pace. The story is cute and fun, but overall, I would have liked something a bit more substantial. Thanks to NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2019
A Highlander Walks into a Bar is a thoroughly entertaining, low-angst romance that’s bursting at the seams with warmth, humor and tenderness. Izzy is downright flabbergasted when her mother returns home from vacation with a Scottish boyfriend; therefore, when her mom’s new beau’s nephew, Alasdair, shows up and decides to stick around, she feels as though her world is turning upside down. Alasdair offers to lend his expertise to Izzy in order to help her coordinate their small town’s Highlander Festival, which she and her mom host on their estate. Although Izzy doesn’t trust either Scot, she is surprised when she strikes up a friendship and finds herself attracted to Alasdair. Their connection deepens as they work together, and theirs is a heady, emotional slow-burn love story. A Highlander Walks into a Bar is wonderfully quirky, utterly charming and perfectly romantic.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Recommendation appeared on Frolic on July 31, 2019.
ARC provided, but this review was voluntarily and honestly written.
Recommendation appeared on Frolic on July 31, 2019.
July 21, 2019
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
An older Highlander follows a woman from Scotland to small town Georgia. Highland, Georgia, to be exact. He is then followed by his very hot nephew and the fun begins. I love these hot, handsome Highlanders in Historical Romance. Reading a contemporary romance with Highlander heroes is sooooooo fun! Hot, handsome, intriguing Highlander Alasdair and sweet, steady, pretty Isabel meet under interesting circumstances in this delightful tale of how fate can work everything out.
Isabel Buchanan' mom, Rose, comes home from her trip to Scotland with a very interesting and unique keepsake - an actual Highlander! Gareth and Rose spent a lot of time together in Scotland and were not quite ready for it to end. With the annual Highland Games Festival looming, Rose thought Gareth could lend some authenticity to the event that keeps both the town of Highland and the Buchanan family afloat. But it turns out that momma Rose is more interested in Highlander Gareth than in planning the Highland Games. Izzy is at a loss as to what Gareth is after.
When Gareth's hot, young nephew comes looking for his uncle there is more than a little intrigue going on. Alasdair Blackmore is totally taken with the small town and is immediately smitten by the lovely Isabel. She has a few reservations about both Alasdair and his uncle and well she should since the two don't want their family relationship known. He helps Izzy with the festival all the time knowing that after the Games, he and Gareth must return to Scotland. As the time approaches Alasdair has some life altering decisions to make and, hopefully, his little omissions won't get in the way of his spending the rest of his life with Isabel.
An older Highlander follows a woman from Scotland to small town Georgia. Highland, Georgia, to be exact. He is then followed by his very hot nephew and the fun begins. I love these hot, handsome Highlanders in Historical Romance. Reading a contemporary romance with Highlander heroes is sooooooo fun! Hot, handsome, intriguing Highlander Alasdair and sweet, steady, pretty Isabel meet under interesting circumstances in this delightful tale of how fate can work everything out.
Isabel Buchanan' mom, Rose, comes home from her trip to Scotland with a very interesting and unique keepsake - an actual Highlander! Gareth and Rose spent a lot of time together in Scotland and were not quite ready for it to end. With the annual Highland Games Festival looming, Rose thought Gareth could lend some authenticity to the event that keeps both the town of Highland and the Buchanan family afloat. But it turns out that momma Rose is more interested in Highlander Gareth than in planning the Highland Games. Izzy is at a loss as to what Gareth is after.
When Gareth's hot, young nephew comes looking for his uncle there is more than a little intrigue going on. Alasdair Blackmore is totally taken with the small town and is immediately smitten by the lovely Isabel. She has a few reservations about both Alasdair and his uncle and well she should since the two don't want their family relationship known. He helps Izzy with the festival all the time knowing that after the Games, he and Gareth must return to Scotland. As the time approaches Alasdair has some life altering decisions to make and, hopefully, his little omissions won't get in the way of his spending the rest of his life with Isabel.
July 15, 2019
Snoozed my way out of this one. Not sure I should call it a read...maybe a skim?!? Should have a category for that on Goodreads. Read, but kinda not?! BORING! I think that sums this up. If the liars in the story would have just told the truth and stopped lamenting they were lying and how they hated being lied to...........oh sorry fell asleep there again.
Could have been a great book liked the premise of it, execution not so much.
Received a copy from the publisher for an honest review.
Could have been a great book liked the premise of it, execution not so much.
Received a copy from the publisher for an honest review.
July 30, 2019
I have loved this author since I discovered the Cottonbloom series. She writes sweet, comfy romance that's wholesome and romantic. It's really no wonder that almost all of the books I've read by her have rated 4 or more stars and that a few even made it to my all time favorites shelf. With so many mobsters/bikers/millionaires/playboys in romance these days it's nice to read about everyday people with average/normal lives finding love.
I've re-read Tally and Nash and Willa and Jackson's stories a handful of times and they never fail to have me falling in love with them all over again. Their love stories are still charming and I still go all warm and goooey over them. So yes, I'm a fan of this author and she is an auto buy for me.
That being said, this highly anticipated start to a new series kind of missed its mark for me. Not saying I didn't like the book, because I did. I liked the small town vibes, I liked the quirky Highland Festival and I liked Izzy and Alasdair but I'm just bummed I didn't love it.
Alasdair and Izzy both, were cute, likable MCs. They're both independent and strong and content with their lives at they are. When they find themselves dealing with sudden changes to their family dynamics neither quiet knows how to deal. There is definitely a cute insta-connection between Alasdair and Izzy and there is flirty banter and heartfelt moments between them that will melt you.
I just felt that their romance was weighed down by too much going on around them. I feel like both needed to spend more time together and with the festival business and the secondary side romance between Gareth and Rose, both MCs had to navigate a lot of outside drama before they had a few stolen moments together.
And those stolen moments were always too short and too few between them. Then the rushed ending felt . . . well, rushed.
I expected to love it but A Highlander Walks into a Bar was just a strong like for me. Had so much potential but it waned a little before it really could get started with little page time focused on the MCs, together. Family drama - Izzy dealing with her mom dating again and Alasdair dealing with his deceased father's infidelity and his estrangement from the only father figure he had growing up (his uncle) - it all left me feeling underwhelmed. I still love this author and will still check out the next in the series and keep my fingers crossed the momentum will pick back up again :)
Memorable Moments:
I did love Alasdair and Izzy's unexpected time in the jammed church closet. Their chemistry and attraction really came out and I loved that they finally got some alone time.
There there was the skinny dipping incident. Lol! I wish there'd been more of these candid moments. I missed their cute one on one page time.
Would I recommend? Yes, this is still worth a recommendation for fans and newcomers. It's sweet, low angst and quirky. Others will definitely find something charming to love about this start to a new series.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
I've re-read Tally and Nash and Willa and Jackson's stories a handful of times and they never fail to have me falling in love with them all over again. Their love stories are still charming and I still go all warm and goooey over them. So yes, I'm a fan of this author and she is an auto buy for me.
That being said, this highly anticipated start to a new series kind of missed its mark for me. Not saying I didn't like the book, because I did. I liked the small town vibes, I liked the quirky Highland Festival and I liked Izzy and Alasdair but I'm just bummed I didn't love it.
Alasdair and Izzy both, were cute, likable MCs. They're both independent and strong and content with their lives at they are. When they find themselves dealing with sudden changes to their family dynamics neither quiet knows how to deal. There is definitely a cute insta-connection between Alasdair and Izzy and there is flirty banter and heartfelt moments between them that will melt you.
I just felt that their romance was weighed down by too much going on around them. I feel like both needed to spend more time together and with the festival business and the secondary side romance between Gareth and Rose, both MCs had to navigate a lot of outside drama before they had a few stolen moments together.
And those stolen moments were always too short and too few between them. Then the rushed ending felt . . . well, rushed.
I expected to love it but A Highlander Walks into a Bar was just a strong like for me. Had so much potential but it waned a little before it really could get started with little page time focused on the MCs, together. Family drama - Izzy dealing with her mom dating again and Alasdair dealing with his deceased father's infidelity and his estrangement from the only father figure he had growing up (his uncle) - it all left me feeling underwhelmed. I still love this author and will still check out the next in the series and keep my fingers crossed the momentum will pick back up again :)
Memorable Moments:
I did love Alasdair and Izzy's unexpected time in the jammed church closet. Their chemistry and attraction really came out and I loved that they finally got some alone time.
There there was the skinny dipping incident. Lol! I wish there'd been more of these candid moments. I missed their cute one on one page time.
Would I recommend? Yes, this is still worth a recommendation for fans and newcomers. It's sweet, low angst and quirky. Others will definitely find something charming to love about this start to a new series.
* * * ARC provided for an honest review * * *
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
SAFETY INFO:
August 8, 2019
Laura Trentham is one of my favorite authors if small-town romance. A Highlander Walks into a Bar is a fun, charming and sexy addition to her unique brand of southern romance with quirky characters and plenty of hi-jinx. Highland Georgia won't be the same after the Blackmoor men join their games. The Buchanan women, Rose her daughter Isabel or "Izzy", our main character, have been planning the Highland games for years, and it seems this year, her mother brought came home from her vacation in Scotland with an expert, Gareth. But Gareth is really only there out of newfound love for Rose. It's his nephew Alasdair, hot on his the heels of his uncle, who comes in and decides to settle for a time, at least as long and his uncle is there.
There are some great family dynamics that play out in this story; between both mother and daughter and uncle and nephew. I love how protective Izzy is of Rose, but Rose has pretty strong instincts that guide her. Rose has a lot of faith in her daughter and that in itself is heartwarming. Gareth and Alasdair have a decade of lost time between them, but the Buchanan women do a fine job bringing them back together.
While there is chemistry all around, it's Izzys' and Alasdair's that's at the center. While he isn't forthright as to why he's there, he and Izzy build camaraderie and a friendship soon follows. But there is so much more to it, and soon they banter their way towards the bedroom. of course, secret will be exposed and their connection will be challenged, but he is Laird of the games after all, and winners never quit.
I highly recommend this delightful romance read ! 4 Stars.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
There are some great family dynamics that play out in this story; between both mother and daughter and uncle and nephew. I love how protective Izzy is of Rose, but Rose has pretty strong instincts that guide her. Rose has a lot of faith in her daughter and that in itself is heartwarming. Gareth and Alasdair have a decade of lost time between them, but the Buchanan women do a fine job bringing them back together.
While there is chemistry all around, it's Izzys' and Alasdair's that's at the center. While he isn't forthright as to why he's there, he and Izzy build camaraderie and a friendship soon follows. But there is so much more to it, and soon they banter their way towards the bedroom. of course, secret will be exposed and their connection will be challenged, but he is Laird of the games after all, and winners never quit.
I highly recommend this delightful romance read ! 4 Stars.
*I received a copy in exchange for an honest review*
July 24, 2019
2.5 rounded up to 3 stars
I so want to say that I loved this book but alas I just didn’t it has everything I love in a book. A quirky small-town romance, a sexy Scotsman and a fun occasion. I just can’t seem to pinpoint why I didn’t love it.
Isabel Buchanan is a native of Highland, Georgia where the town is Scots mad. It is that time in the year again where the Highland Games takes place and where she has loads of preparations to do. Before all the preparations start, she goes to pick her mother up from the airport. She has brought a souvenir home one Scotsman Gareth. Her world is turned upside down in an instant.
Izzy was just too naïve and childish for me and as I’m jaded and cynical and well, I just didn’t get her issues/hang-ups etc. She is so paranoid, and the question is why?
Alasdair Blackmoor’s Mum sends him after his uncle to save him from himself by going off with an American tart. He is to see that his uncle is okay which he does. While in Highland he questions his life choices and to be honest don’t we all at some time. But he screws up and well his way of groveling is unique to say the least.
I don’t really care for Alasdair to be honest there isn’t much for that I can say.
I also didn’t feel the chemistry.
The writing is good and strong some things could have been fleshed out more but that is just me. It was slightly predictable and not an easy read by far. But I do see potential for the series.
I think I need a break from romance.
I so want to say that I loved this book but alas I just didn’t it has everything I love in a book. A quirky small-town romance, a sexy Scotsman and a fun occasion. I just can’t seem to pinpoint why I didn’t love it.
Isabel Buchanan is a native of Highland, Georgia where the town is Scots mad. It is that time in the year again where the Highland Games takes place and where she has loads of preparations to do. Before all the preparations start, she goes to pick her mother up from the airport. She has brought a souvenir home one Scotsman Gareth. Her world is turned upside down in an instant.
Izzy was just too naïve and childish for me and as I’m jaded and cynical and well, I just didn’t get her issues/hang-ups etc. She is so paranoid, and the question is why?
Alasdair Blackmoor’s Mum sends him after his uncle to save him from himself by going off with an American tart. He is to see that his uncle is okay which he does. While in Highland he questions his life choices and to be honest don’t we all at some time. But he screws up and well his way of groveling is unique to say the least.
I don’t really care for Alasdair to be honest there isn’t much for that I can say.
I also didn’t feel the chemistry.
The writing is good and strong some things could have been fleshed out more but that is just me. It was slightly predictable and not an easy read by far. But I do see potential for the series.
I think I need a break from romance.
May 24, 2019
I loved this book! A Highlander Walks into a Bar is a lovely romance between Isabel and Alasdair. Both have family expectations they're dealing with--some external, and some self-inflicted. Both are smart, capable characters, so there's no unpleasant imbalance of power to contend with. They have the built-in conflict of having lives on two different continents, but the conflict is more complex than that. While it's handled well (for the most part), there is a piece of "just talk to each other already!" in the way that the conflict is introduced and dragged out. (This is a personal pet peeve of mine, so it may not bother you to have a conflict rest on something that could have been resolved by a brief conversation (and, indeed, it does, albeit at the end of the book.)
Tropes include:
Fish out of water
family loyalties
cross-cultural romance
secret identity
smart women
Beta male
family secrets
ARC provided by NetGalley and St Martins Press in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
Tropes include:
Fish out of water
family loyalties
cross-cultural romance
secret identity
smart women
Beta male
family secrets
ARC provided by NetGalley and St Martins Press in exchange for an honest review. Thank you for the opportunity to read and review.
June 20, 2019
Review posted on Got Fiction?
With a title like that, how could I say no?
In this book, Isabel picks her mom up at the airport from a trip to Scotland, and she's brought back a souvenir. An over 6 ft tall souvenir. Izzy isn't exactly okay with her mom bringing a man home, but recognizing that it isn't her choice, she grits her teeth and bears it.
The man her mom brought home to Georgia is actually an earl. But since he wanted someone who loves him for just who he is, he let her believe that he's just the caretaker of the estate.
Well, Gareth's nephew is in the States for business and after some prodding from his mom, he flies down to Georgia to save his uncle from the money-grubbing American woman who's stolen his heart. Except he finds Isabel and her mom are nothing like anything he could have expected.
Isabel is funny, and sweet, and down to earth, and her mom and Gareth are absolutely in love. That changes everything. Then he realizes they have no clue who Gareth actually is. Before he knew that they were honest and their intentions were good, he'd called in a favor to dig into their financials. This bites him in the butt later on, but in the meantime, Gareth convinces Alasdair to join him in helping the town with their Highland Festival.
The premise of this book is cute. And the whole book reads as if it's ready to be made into the latest Rom Com. It's cute, funny, and fluffy. To be honest, I'd watch it.
This author has the extraordinary talent of switching between the hero and heroine's points of view and changing their inner voice as authentically as if you were truly in Alasdair's mind, and truly in Izzy's mind. This is a series I'm looking forward to.
***ARC courtesy of the publisher St. Martin's Press
July 16, 2019
Hang on to your kilt-loving hearts! Laura Trentham’s A HIGHLANDER WALKS INTO A BAR has everything from kilts to modern day Scottish lairds to a sweet and sassy Southern Belle as love may have just crossed the pond, landing in Georgia, twice.
When you travel, don’t you bring home souvenirs? Isabel Buchanan’s mother brought home her own brawny highlander and things are looking pretty cozy for them! When his nephew shows up, in search of his uncle, no one expected to possibly find love in the air again!
Alasdair is smooth, confident and handsome, Isabel has a fiery temper, a ton of sass and a mind of her own. Still, this mysterious highlander has her heart in knots until a very big secret is revealed!
Fun reading! Fast reading! Funny reading! And oh, the romance…almost as hot as a man in a kilt!
I received this ARC copy of A Highlander Walks into a Bar from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Highland, Georgia - Book 1
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (July 30, 2019)
Publication Date: July 30, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Print Length: 311 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
When you travel, don’t you bring home souvenirs? Isabel Buchanan’s mother brought home her own brawny highlander and things are looking pretty cozy for them! When his nephew shows up, in search of his uncle, no one expected to possibly find love in the air again!
Alasdair is smooth, confident and handsome, Isabel has a fiery temper, a ton of sass and a mind of her own. Still, this mysterious highlander has her heart in knots until a very big secret is revealed!
Fun reading! Fast reading! Funny reading! And oh, the romance…almost as hot as a man in a kilt!
I received this ARC copy of A Highlander Walks into a Bar from St. Martin's Press. This is my honest and voluntary review.
Series: Highland, Georgia - Book 1
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks (July 30, 2019)
Publication Date: July 30, 2019
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Comedy
Print Length: 311 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews, Giveaways, Fabulous Book News, follow: http://tometender.blogspot.com
August 1, 2019
4.5 Stars Being of Scottish heritage, I have attended Highland Games and always enjoyed them, especially the athletic events. With Alasdair Blackmoor competing, not only for the title of "Laird of the Games" but for the heart of Izzy, you know you are in for a delight. I just wish I could have seen it, not just read about it.
Laura Trentham has penned an amusing and delightful romance with a bit of drama and angst. I loved all four of the main characters, Izzy, Rose, Gareth and Alasdair. This one has love at first sight done well with me rooting for both couples. With both Izzy and Alasdair starting off trying to protect their families, there are a few missteps that take a humorous turn. I love how Izzy says what she thinks, often putting her foot in it and causing Alasdair to fall for her. His description of Izzy to his mom that she is funny, smart and mole-free had me giggling. Alasdair and Gareth are the epitome of sexy Scot and with their brogue, their gray eyes and their humor they swept mother and daughter off their feet. I loved the descriptions in this book from the countryside to the Highland Games activities, it was easy to picture things in my mind. My only complaint was that the epilogue was a set up for the next book and I was hoping for more information about how things with Gareth and Rose, as well as Alasdair and Izzy, were going. I am definitely looking forward to the next book to continue the story and learn what is next for those in Highland Georgia. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
Laura Trentham has penned an amusing and delightful romance with a bit of drama and angst. I loved all four of the main characters, Izzy, Rose, Gareth and Alasdair. This one has love at first sight done well with me rooting for both couples. With both Izzy and Alasdair starting off trying to protect their families, there are a few missteps that take a humorous turn. I love how Izzy says what she thinks, often putting her foot in it and causing Alasdair to fall for her. His description of Izzy to his mom that she is funny, smart and mole-free had me giggling. Alasdair and Gareth are the epitome of sexy Scot and with their brogue, their gray eyes and their humor they swept mother and daughter off their feet. I loved the descriptions in this book from the countryside to the Highland Games activities, it was easy to picture things in my mind. My only complaint was that the epilogue was a set up for the next book and I was hoping for more information about how things with Gareth and Rose, as well as Alasdair and Izzy, were going. I am definitely looking forward to the next book to continue the story and learn what is next for those in Highland Georgia. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
July 31, 2019
3.25 stars
Laura Trentham came on my radar because of her Cottonbloom series which I really enjoyed. A Highlander Walks Into a Bar is the start of her new series, with Scottish heroes (I assume all of them will be).
Our heroine Isabel has dedicated her life ever since her dad died, trying to hold on to her dad's dreams and the yearly festival they put up, important for their town's economy. She also buried her dreams of travel. However, when her mother comes back with an older Scottish companion after her holiday, and the hero the said companion's nephew follows, shaking the heroine's life.
She finds her mom who adored her father, distracted for one. The second, the hero is another distraction for her. The hero's estranged uncle has a hidden identity: he is an aristocrat, so is the hero.
Overall, I would say I liked this book but it was missing some spice. However, I am intrigued enough to definitely read the next in the series for sure.
ARC provided by Netgalley
Laura Trentham came on my radar because of her Cottonbloom series which I really enjoyed. A Highlander Walks Into a Bar is the start of her new series, with Scottish heroes (I assume all of them will be).
Our heroine Isabel has dedicated her life ever since her dad died, trying to hold on to her dad's dreams and the yearly festival they put up, important for their town's economy. She also buried her dreams of travel. However, when her mother comes back with an older Scottish companion after her holiday, and the hero the said companion's nephew follows, shaking the heroine's life.
She finds her mom who adored her father, distracted for one. The second, the hero is another distraction for her. The hero's estranged uncle has a hidden identity: he is an aristocrat, so is the hero.
Overall, I would say I liked this book but it was missing some spice. However, I am intrigued enough to definitely read the next in the series for sure.
ARC provided by Netgalley
July 31, 2019
Hot Scot meets his Southern Belle.
I loved this story! Both Izzy (Isabel) and Alasdair are devoted to their families, primarily their mothers, and for Alasdair, his uncle as well, since he's his Uncle Gareth's heir. Izzy is gobsmacked to realize her mother has come home from a visit to Scotland with a beau. A Scottish beau who is going to be staying with then during their annual festival celebrating all things Scottish and injecting life and money into Highland. Little does Izzy or Alasdair expect this romantic entanglement to lead to anything good. This summer romance has all the humor, love, and passion I adore and lots of heart, in the family both by blood and choice. Love, love, loved! I may be envisioning Alasdair a bit like a young Sean Connery. And that is a delightful image. I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I loved this story! Both Izzy (Isabel) and Alasdair are devoted to their families, primarily their mothers, and for Alasdair, his uncle as well, since he's his Uncle Gareth's heir. Izzy is gobsmacked to realize her mother has come home from a visit to Scotland with a beau. A Scottish beau who is going to be staying with then during their annual festival celebrating all things Scottish and injecting life and money into Highland. Little does Izzy or Alasdair expect this romantic entanglement to lead to anything good. This summer romance has all the humor, love, and passion I adore and lots of heart, in the family both by blood and choice. Love, love, loved! I may be envisioning Alasdair a bit like a young Sean Connery. And that is a delightful image. I received a review copy. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 2, 2019
Isabel and Rose Buchanan are mother and daughter who live on a lovely Scottish estate in Highland, GA. Every year, they are in charge of a festival highlighting their Scottish heritage. Izzy as she is called by her friends is surprised when she picks her mom up from the airport and she is not alone. Gareth Connors in all of the Scottish glory is with her and Izzy has quite a few mixed emotions about this arrangement. To top that off, a few days later a friend of Gareth's invades their space as well, Alasdair. Izzy is very wary of these two. What are their intentions? Will she and her mother make it through the festival without any issues?
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I was really excited to read this book when I first received it. I have been reading a lot of really steamy romance this summer and I was sure this one was going to be the same. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it left me a bit confused by the language used. The book is set in the South in the US, with ties back to Scotland, but a lot of the wording made me believe that this book was written by a British author. I am also reading an Advanced Copy, so maybe some of that wording will be changed in the final copy.
All the characters in this book are ones I can see myself hanging out with. Izzy is a clumsy woman who is just trying to figure out the life she's living. Whether it brings her joy or if there is something else she can be doing to be happy. Living with her mother and taking care of their home, and being in charge of the festival are all noble deeds, but are they making her happy. When Izzy meets Alasdair, at first she isn't sure how to feel about him. Yes, he is attractive with a deep Scottish accent, but she isn't sure of his true intentions. The same is true of Gareth, although most of her feelings toward him seem to stem from not seeing her mother with anyone else besides her father.
Both of the Buchanan women need some change in their lives. Will these Scottish men be the ones to bring it to them or will they both be left heartbroken?
The book leaves you knowing there is going to be more to this story and I'm interested to find out what is going to happen next.
Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I was really excited to read this book when I first received it. I have been reading a lot of really steamy romance this summer and I was sure this one was going to be the same. Overall, I enjoyed the book, but it left me a bit confused by the language used. The book is set in the South in the US, with ties back to Scotland, but a lot of the wording made me believe that this book was written by a British author. I am also reading an Advanced Copy, so maybe some of that wording will be changed in the final copy.
All the characters in this book are ones I can see myself hanging out with. Izzy is a clumsy woman who is just trying to figure out the life she's living. Whether it brings her joy or if there is something else she can be doing to be happy. Living with her mother and taking care of their home, and being in charge of the festival are all noble deeds, but are they making her happy. When Izzy meets Alasdair, at first she isn't sure how to feel about him. Yes, he is attractive with a deep Scottish accent, but she isn't sure of his true intentions. The same is true of Gareth, although most of her feelings toward him seem to stem from not seeing her mother with anyone else besides her father.
Both of the Buchanan women need some change in their lives. Will these Scottish men be the ones to bring it to them or will they both be left heartbroken?
The book leaves you knowing there is going to be more to this story and I'm interested to find out what is going to happen next.
July 28, 2019
I can't lie, when I first saw the title of this book, I almost passed it up. Whenever I see the term highlander in a romance my mind immediately assumes it's going to be historical romance, which isn't my thing. However, because Laura Trentham is an author I read often, I read the blurb before I moved along. So glad that I did!!!
While this story isn't necessarily a compelling, heart-breaking or super sexy one, it was one that I'm glad to have picked up and would easily read again. I love a good, slow-burning, low-angst romance!
When Izzy's mom brings home a human souvenir from Scotland, Izzy immediately goes into protective daughter mode. Not only does she want to keep her mother from being taken advantage of but she isn't real keen on having to come to terms that her mom is moving on after the death of her dad. Alasdair is summoned to Georgia by his overbearing mom to stop his estranged uncle from being manipulated by the "American Tart" he left Scotland with. When they meet they are quite obviously attracted to each other but they are also both a bit cynical and leery of their elder's possible hidden agendas and their seemingly rushed romance.
Under the guise of staying to help plan the small town of Highland, Georgia's Highland Festival, Alasdair sticks around to watch over his uncle and use the time to reconnect with the man who used to be like a father to him. What he doesn't expect is the connection with Izzy and the way he starts to question what he wants in life. However, he and his uncle are keeping a few secrets from Izzy and her mom that could destroy any chance they have at love.
I adored this small, Scot-obsessed town, the budding romance between the older couple and the easy, sweet connection between Izzy and Alasdair and look forward to what the rest of this series has in store for me.
*I received a copy from NetGalley for voluntary review
Read this and more reviews at https://www.fictionfangirls.com
While this story isn't necessarily a compelling, heart-breaking or super sexy one, it was one that I'm glad to have picked up and would easily read again. I love a good, slow-burning, low-angst romance!
When Izzy's mom brings home a human souvenir from Scotland, Izzy immediately goes into protective daughter mode. Not only does she want to keep her mother from being taken advantage of but she isn't real keen on having to come to terms that her mom is moving on after the death of her dad. Alasdair is summoned to Georgia by his overbearing mom to stop his estranged uncle from being manipulated by the "American Tart" he left Scotland with. When they meet they are quite obviously attracted to each other but they are also both a bit cynical and leery of their elder's possible hidden agendas and their seemingly rushed romance.
Under the guise of staying to help plan the small town of Highland, Georgia's Highland Festival, Alasdair sticks around to watch over his uncle and use the time to reconnect with the man who used to be like a father to him. What he doesn't expect is the connection with Izzy and the way he starts to question what he wants in life. However, he and his uncle are keeping a few secrets from Izzy and her mom that could destroy any chance they have at love.
I adored this small, Scot-obsessed town, the budding romance between the older couple and the easy, sweet connection between Izzy and Alasdair and look forward to what the rest of this series has in store for me.
*I received a copy from NetGalley for voluntary review
Read this and more reviews at https://www.fictionfangirls.com
July 31, 2019
Reviewed for Romancing the Readers Blog: https://romancingthereaders.blogspot....
When I start a new series by a well-loved author I go into it both elated and scared to death. I also have a little sadness thrown in too.
I don't know about you but I hate leaving my friends behind to start a new series. On the other hand, I love the excitement of finding a new town to fall in love with. I wonder if any other genre deals with the same emotions and romance readers do.
So right off the, I wasn't' sure what I was thinking. Did I like Isabel or not? She didn't seem to have a ton of attachments to the town other than her mother, home and highland games. As the story unfolded I realized that was a plus. Trust me, once you read it you'll understand. You don't want me to give everything away, do you?
I really liked Alasdair right away. I felt for him being pulled in so many directions at once. Feeling honor-bound to so many people. He's an all-around good guy. He might have started off with secrets but I both understood and would have too.
I really wetting your whistle for this book, aren't I!
You'll also really like Isabel's mother and Aladair's uncle. Two characters that have a large roll in the story.
I think Trentham did a wonderful job of setting up this series. She gave us a great start and led us to what's next. She sets up the next hero and heroine perfectly. I'm thinking with them we'll get more of the town and the people who live there.
Now don't get me wrong there are others who we met that I want to know more about and I hope to learn a that soon, I just think that A Highlander in a Pick Up will be the book to really expand on this series. By the way, it comes out on 2/25/20.
As you can tell I was so glad to be able to read A Highlander Walks into a Bar. It left me happy and excited for what's coming next. Plus it has two of my favorite things, a small town, and a highlander. What more could I ask for?
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ARC received for an honest review
When I start a new series by a well-loved author I go into it both elated and scared to death. I also have a little sadness thrown in too.
I don't know about you but I hate leaving my friends behind to start a new series. On the other hand, I love the excitement of finding a new town to fall in love with. I wonder if any other genre deals with the same emotions and romance readers do.
So right off the, I wasn't' sure what I was thinking. Did I like Isabel or not? She didn't seem to have a ton of attachments to the town other than her mother, home and highland games. As the story unfolded I realized that was a plus. Trust me, once you read it you'll understand. You don't want me to give everything away, do you?
I really liked Alasdair right away. I felt for him being pulled in so many directions at once. Feeling honor-bound to so many people. He's an all-around good guy. He might have started off with secrets but I both understood and would have too.
I really wetting your whistle for this book, aren't I!
You'll also really like Isabel's mother and Aladair's uncle. Two characters that have a large roll in the story.
I think Trentham did a wonderful job of setting up this series. She gave us a great start and led us to what's next. She sets up the next hero and heroine perfectly. I'm thinking with them we'll get more of the town and the people who live there.
Now don't get me wrong there are others who we met that I want to know more about and I hope to learn a that soon, I just think that A Highlander in a Pick Up will be the book to really expand on this series. By the way, it comes out on 2/25/20.
As you can tell I was so glad to be able to read A Highlander Walks into a Bar. It left me happy and excited for what's coming next. Plus it has two of my favorite things, a small town, and a highlander. What more could I ask for?
Follow me on:
https://www.facebook.com/RomancingThe...
https://twitter.com/Romancingreader
ARC received for an honest review
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