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The Lochmore Legacy #1
His Convenient Highland Wedding
Bought by her husband…
Bound by secrets of their past!
The start of The Lochmore Legacy—a Scottish castle through the ages! Earl’s daughter Flora McCrieff brought shame on her family once. Now she discovers she must wed impossibly rich but lowborn Lachlan McNeill. He’s undeniably handsome, but a man of few words. Despite the attraction that burns between them, can she reach beyond his impeccable clothing to find the emotions he’s locked away for so long?
The Lochmore Legacy collection
Book 1 — His Convenient Highland Wedding
Book 2 — Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple
Book 3 — A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes
Book 4 — Secrets of a Highland Warrior by Nicole Locke
“Well, what can I say about this? Only that it is perfection! … A riveting, enthralling utterly romantic, love story that captures the reader’s attention from the first page, and takes you on a beautifully romantic and thrilling journey”
— Chicks, Rogues and Scandals on Lady Olivia and the Infamous Rake
“I was completely charmed yet again by Janice Preston’s writing … It really is a story to lose yourself in!”
— Rae Reads on Lady Olivia and the Infamous Rake
Bound by secrets of their past!
The start of The Lochmore Legacy—a Scottish castle through the ages! Earl’s daughter Flora McCrieff brought shame on her family once. Now she discovers she must wed impossibly rich but lowborn Lachlan McNeill. He’s undeniably handsome, but a man of few words. Despite the attraction that burns between them, can she reach beyond his impeccable clothing to find the emotions he’s locked away for so long?
The Lochmore Legacy collection
Book 1 — His Convenient Highland Wedding
Book 2 — Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple
Book 3 — A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes
Book 4 — Secrets of a Highland Warrior by Nicole Locke
“Well, what can I say about this? Only that it is perfection! … A riveting, enthralling utterly romantic, love story that captures the reader’s attention from the first page, and takes you on a beautifully romantic and thrilling journey”
— Chicks, Rogues and Scandals on Lady Olivia and the Infamous Rake
“I was completely charmed yet again by Janice Preston’s writing … It really is a story to lose yourself in!”
— Rae Reads on Lady Olivia and the Infamous Rake
369 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 1, 2019
About the author
Janice Preston
83 books152 followersI grew up in Wembley, North London, with a love of reading, writing stories and animals. After leaving school at eighteen, I moved to Devon and any thoughts of writing became lost in the hectic rush of life as a farmer’s wife, with two children and many animals to care for. When my children left home for university, I discovered a love of history and of the Regency period in particular and began to write seriously for the first time since my teens.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
Real life then got in the way and I didn't write again until 2009. I joined the Romantic Novelists' Association in 2012 and my first Regency romance was accepted for publication by Harlequin Mills & Boon in late 2013.
I now live in the West Midlands with my second husband and two cats and I continue to write Regency romances for Harlequin Mills & Boon.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
February 24, 2019
In the interests of transparency I should start with a disclaimer that I have an interest in this book because I'm one of the other authors involved in the Lochmore Legacy continuity. HOWEVER - this in no way colours my opinion of this book (other than a staggering sense of relief that it is so damn good and means readers will be gagging for the next one in the series).
Married for the money he'll bring to her family and the access to society she'll bring him, Lachlan and Flora make an appealing and interesting couple. Both are aware their pasts have the potential to ruin them socially and allow a sense of inadequacy and shame cloud their relationship. Watching them grow closer (in every sense) made for a compelling read full of emotion and passion, and I raced through it. I have a real soft spot for a hero who doesn't have a title and is of a lower social status than the heroine. Lachlan is a self-made man with a past that has left him driven and ambitious, and one of the things I enjoyed was the details given about the business he is setting up. It is the historical titbits I pick up along the journey that always makes reading historical romance so much fun.
Flora's journey from compliant outcast to confident woman capable of standing up for herself was my favourite part. She grows as a person alongside the husband she is married off to (for financial reasons) and drives the story along.
There was a good supporting cast of secondary characters (one in particular is begging for her own book and HEA) and teasers about the mystery that will be unravelled across the series.
Highly recommended.
Married for the money he'll bring to her family and the access to society she'll bring him, Lachlan and Flora make an appealing and interesting couple. Both are aware their pasts have the potential to ruin them socially and allow a sense of inadequacy and shame cloud their relationship. Watching them grow closer (in every sense) made for a compelling read full of emotion and passion, and I raced through it. I have a real soft spot for a hero who doesn't have a title and is of a lower social status than the heroine. Lachlan is a self-made man with a past that has left him driven and ambitious, and one of the things I enjoyed was the details given about the business he is setting up. It is the historical titbits I pick up along the journey that always makes reading historical romance so much fun.
Flora's journey from compliant outcast to confident woman capable of standing up for herself was my favourite part. She grows as a person alongside the husband she is married off to (for financial reasons) and drives the story along.
There was a good supporting cast of secondary characters (one in particular is begging for her own book and HEA) and teasers about the mystery that will be unravelled across the series.
Highly recommended.
March 17, 2019
Janice Preston is one the nicest authors, that will openly engage on Twitter to all fans, oh, and one other state of fact Janice is exceptionally good at writing historical romances with vibrant characters together with plots that are easy to follow and understand. Lady Flora McCrieff is certainly a brave young lady, searching in part her castle where she shouldn't be exploring. It gave me the creeps as she's goes looking around and finds a brooch, that's also my favourite part of jewellery. Where did that brooch originally come from? Flora knows her own mind, turning down a Duke that wanted to marry her. Now Lachlan McNeill is a man that hasn't seen Lady Flora McCrieff, but he's going to marry her, but why is this man Lachlan marrying a young lady that he has never seen until their wedding day? Your in for a super treat with this book and with hidden secrets, lurking waiting for you to read.
April 22, 2019
Janice Preston gets the
Lochmore Legacy
series off to a solid start with His Convenient Highland Wedding, even though the title is a bit of a misnomer. While the wedding in question no doubt serves a convenient purpose for the groom, this book starts with the heroine and in many ways, it is her character arc that pulls the story along.
We first meet Flora McCrieff as a twelve-year-old girl. She’s bright, curious, and to her frustration, disregarded by her traditional and domineering father. The idea that a daughter might have an intellect and ideas of her own seems not to matter in this family. Left to her own devices, Flora goes exploring in a forbidden corner of the castle. Among her discoveries is a simple and very old brooch that she keeps as her own. Pay attention – this brooch will keep reappearing and it’s going to be important over the course of the series, I do suspect.
The main story action takes place several years later. Now nineteen, Flora continues to face complete disregard for her wishes from her family, and as the family fortune has declined, she now finds herself fairly well forced into marriage. In fact, she and Lachlan McNeill meet for the very first time at the wedding itself. Flora finds herself somewhat comforted to see that her groom is handsome and shows signs of kindness, but the situation is still quite strained.
Readers will quickly see that (a) Flora tends to be fairly sensible and (b) years of crap from her family have pretty much flattened out any inclinations toward flouncing that she otherwise would have had. At times, particularly in the beginning, Flora comes a little too close to being a doormat heroine. However, readers get just enough glimpses inside her heard to see that she does in fact have a mind of her own. She sees her problems and she feels deeply frustrated with the cold emptiness of her marriage, loneliness in her new home, etc.., but she lacks the experience to know how to fix the problems.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
We first meet Flora McCrieff as a twelve-year-old girl. She’s bright, curious, and to her frustration, disregarded by her traditional and domineering father. The idea that a daughter might have an intellect and ideas of her own seems not to matter in this family. Left to her own devices, Flora goes exploring in a forbidden corner of the castle. Among her discoveries is a simple and very old brooch that she keeps as her own. Pay attention – this brooch will keep reappearing and it’s going to be important over the course of the series, I do suspect.
The main story action takes place several years later. Now nineteen, Flora continues to face complete disregard for her wishes from her family, and as the family fortune has declined, she now finds herself fairly well forced into marriage. In fact, she and Lachlan McNeill meet for the very first time at the wedding itself. Flora finds herself somewhat comforted to see that her groom is handsome and shows signs of kindness, but the situation is still quite strained.
Readers will quickly see that (a) Flora tends to be fairly sensible and (b) years of crap from her family have pretty much flattened out any inclinations toward flouncing that she otherwise would have had. At times, particularly in the beginning, Flora comes a little too close to being a doormat heroine. However, readers get just enough glimpses inside her heard to see that she does in fact have a mind of her own. She sees her problems and she feels deeply frustrated with the cold emptiness of her marriage, loneliness in her new home, etc.., but she lacks the experience to know how to fix the problems.
This is a partial review. You can find the complete text at All About Romance: https://allaboutromance.com/book-revi...
April 1, 2019
Lady Flora McCrieff's life had not been easy because of her tyrannical father, the Earl of Aberwyld. After she refused a duke's marriage proposal a year before, Flora's relationship with her father deteriorated further. Flora didn't know how precarious the family finances were when she was told she had to marry a wealthy businessman, Lachlan McNeill. Lachlan wants to grow his whisky business, and to do so, he needs a well-connected wife, and Lady Flora is just that. As long as she asks no questions about his past...
Oh my goodness, what an emotional read this is! I think I experienced every moment of Flora's loneliness, her sadness, and her discouragement at her predicament. Lachlan is a decent man, but he is just not present. he doesn't know how to act with her, what to say. He feels undeserving of such a lovely woman; he doesn't want to scare her away, so he avoids her, leaving her even more distraught. Janice Preston has created a remarkable gothic atmosphere, suited to Flora's every state of mind. Her attempts to get closer to her husband are in vain; he is always occupied, and he has secret business to attend to. Flora tries and tries, but nothing seems to work. From disillusioned, she grows angry, resentful, until an opportunity presents itself, and hopes she might have glimpsed the light at the end of the tunnel.
Ms. Preston's extensive research paints a vivid and realistic portrait of Victorian society, very Dickensian, highlighting the chasm between the classes; the generally appalling treatment of labourers and women; the growing poverty affecting the common people. And all this is essential to the romance in HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING, because it is what eventually brings Flora and Lachlan closer. I also loved the inclusion of a legendary composer because of the stunning historical accuracy of the fact, and because he is one of my favourite artists. It's easy to understand why Lachlan wants to conceal his past; it is a huge secret, but I had no doubt that Flora would accept it with grace.
HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING is supremely compelling, intense, powerful, and slightly unsettling because of how well every feeling is conveyed. This richly textured novel offers not only a wonderful romance - and a hard-earned happily ever after - but also a world so convincing and well drawn, that Ms. Preston could build a whole series based on her extraordinary characters and their tribulations. Now, I can hardly wait to go back in time, and learn more about The Lochmore Legacy, and the brooch. What a fabulous start to what promises to be a very exciting series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Oh my goodness, what an emotional read this is! I think I experienced every moment of Flora's loneliness, her sadness, and her discouragement at her predicament. Lachlan is a decent man, but he is just not present. he doesn't know how to act with her, what to say. He feels undeserving of such a lovely woman; he doesn't want to scare her away, so he avoids her, leaving her even more distraught. Janice Preston has created a remarkable gothic atmosphere, suited to Flora's every state of mind. Her attempts to get closer to her husband are in vain; he is always occupied, and he has secret business to attend to. Flora tries and tries, but nothing seems to work. From disillusioned, she grows angry, resentful, until an opportunity presents itself, and hopes she might have glimpsed the light at the end of the tunnel.
Ms. Preston's extensive research paints a vivid and realistic portrait of Victorian society, very Dickensian, highlighting the chasm between the classes; the generally appalling treatment of labourers and women; the growing poverty affecting the common people. And all this is essential to the romance in HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING, because it is what eventually brings Flora and Lachlan closer. I also loved the inclusion of a legendary composer because of the stunning historical accuracy of the fact, and because he is one of my favourite artists. It's easy to understand why Lachlan wants to conceal his past; it is a huge secret, but I had no doubt that Flora would accept it with grace.
HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING is supremely compelling, intense, powerful, and slightly unsettling because of how well every feeling is conveyed. This richly textured novel offers not only a wonderful romance - and a hard-earned happily ever after - but also a world so convincing and well drawn, that Ms. Preston could build a whole series based on her extraordinary characters and their tribulations. Now, I can hardly wait to go back in time, and learn more about The Lochmore Legacy, and the brooch. What a fabulous start to what promises to be a very exciting series!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
March 1, 2019
His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston is the first in a new series “The Lochmore Legacy”. I’ve been anxiously waiting for this series to start since I first heard about it some time ago. What makes this series unique is that there are 4 authors involved and they will each be writing in a different time period going back in time to unravel a mystery. Janice Preston starts us off in the Victorian Era. Lara Temple follows in book 2 with a Regency. Elisabeth Hobbes will have a Tudor story in book 3. Then finally Nicole Locke will give us a Medieval in the 4th and last book in the series. Each story will be centered around a Scottish Castle.
Flora McCrieff is the heroine in this particular story. She is the eldest daughter of an impoverished Earl. Her father is a tyrant who expects his family to bend to his demands. So when her father tells her she will wed a man she’s never seen in two days, she really has no other choice.
Lachlan McNeill grew up in the slums of Glasgow. He’s now a rich businessman who is looking for connections to help grow his new whisky distillery. He arranges to wed Flora sight unseen hoping that by marrying a lady of the aristocracy it will help ease his way into Scottish society.
I really loved Flora and Lachlan from the start and was caught up in their story. They are good people but complete strangers when they marry. So there are lots of struggles to talk and communicate in the beginning. They both want more from their marriage but struggle with their insecurities to admit it to each other. It was evident there was an attraction from the beginning and I like that author Janice Preston gave this couple time to get to know and trust each other, letting their love grow gradually.
This was such a fantastic start to this new series. The story was beautifully written with wonderful secondary characters, a mystery that will be carried on throughout the series and a couple who stole my heart. I would definitely like to revisit these characters at a later date and would love to read the secondary characters stories. The mystery is intriguing and has me wanting book two so I can learn more about what this is about… I would highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more of The Lochmore Legacy. 10 stars if I could!
Flora McCrieff is the heroine in this particular story. She is the eldest daughter of an impoverished Earl. Her father is a tyrant who expects his family to bend to his demands. So when her father tells her she will wed a man she’s never seen in two days, she really has no other choice.
Lachlan McNeill grew up in the slums of Glasgow. He’s now a rich businessman who is looking for connections to help grow his new whisky distillery. He arranges to wed Flora sight unseen hoping that by marrying a lady of the aristocracy it will help ease his way into Scottish society.
I really loved Flora and Lachlan from the start and was caught up in their story. They are good people but complete strangers when they marry. So there are lots of struggles to talk and communicate in the beginning. They both want more from their marriage but struggle with their insecurities to admit it to each other. It was evident there was an attraction from the beginning and I like that author Janice Preston gave this couple time to get to know and trust each other, letting their love grow gradually.
This was such a fantastic start to this new series. The story was beautifully written with wonderful secondary characters, a mystery that will be carried on throughout the series and a couple who stole my heart. I would definitely like to revisit these characters at a later date and would love to read the secondary characters stories. The mystery is intriguing and has me wanting book two so I can learn more about what this is about… I would highly recommend this book and look forward to reading more of The Lochmore Legacy. 10 stars if I could!
March 21, 2019
Janice Preston is a virtuoso of words. She magically transforms her characters with such skill that mesmerizes you in an instant. His Convenient Highland Wedding is a story of family, scandal and fortune. It encompasses pain, growth and passion. It is reliably entertaining and masterfully crafted and I couldn’t help but get lost in the journey Lachlan, Flora and the vibrant secondary cast took me on. A stellar read from start to end!
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
Highly Recommended
5 Stars
March 7, 2019
Oh, my goodness me!! This is ridiculously good. No, good isn’t the right word to describe just how brilliant this book is; definitely more along the lines of sensational. I shouldn’t be surprised seeing who the author is, Ms Preston is a favourite author of mine, I knew that I would be in for a great story, but this is really something special, and I can honestly say that this is my favourite of all of Ms Preston’s work, it really is astonishing how good this is.
I love it when author’s go out of their comfort zone and try a new era, and I think that Ms Preston has out done her self here. I was literally blown away with the excellence of this book, I cannot praise Janice Preston enough. This has ‘Best Selling’ and ‘Made to be a Movie’ written all over it.
Janice Preston, what have you done to me? How can I possibly love another hero now? Lachlan has now ruined me for all other heroes, I will never be the same again.
So His Convenient Highland Wedding is the start of a whole new series; The Lochmore Legacy which is so refreshingly new and unique in it’s own right. The Lochmore Legacy is written by four amazing historical romance authors; Janice Preston, Lara Temple, Elisabeth Hobbes and Nicole Locke and it will span across four separate era’s, it will start in the Victorian and go back through Regency, Tudor and finally end in Medieval where all the secrets will be revealed. The connection between the books will be linked with the setting (The Castle) and the feuding families, This is such an original idea, it’s imaginative and adventurous and not something we usually come across in romance and I can’t wait to see where this series is going to go, judging by this first instalment The Lochmore Legacy is going to be something special; one of those once in a life times things.
But, that is all for the future I really much stop babbling and focus on the here and now.
This is in all essence a ‘Marriage of Convenience’ but I see it as much, much more than that. It is a finding love in the most unexpected places entwined with a stonking great mysterious undercurrent that runs throughout the book and believe me, I was gripped!
Businessman Lachlan McNeill – oh, be still my beating heart! – is trying to get his newly founded Whisky brewery up and running, he is confident that his new blend will become a great whiskey. There is just one thing standing in his way, and that is who is. He is a self-made man, new money as some call him and not an aristocrat – can you see why I am so much in love with this guy? He is a man who has a troubled and dark past – one of which he is deeply ashamed of and one which he knows if society ever found out about his business would probably fail. He hides his past and plans to get himself a patron, an up standing man of society who will be able to help, but to get that he needs a wife with some clout. Which is why he marries Lady Flora.
Flora McCrieff is basically sold to the highest bidder, that’s how I saw the way her family treated her. After bringing scandal to her house and with her family in dire need of money, Flora is married off to Lachlan. A man she never even set eyes upon until the day of her wedding, she is saddened that her family would do such a thing and depressed that she has been shunned from society and now she feeling a mixture of fear and trepidation at what kind of man her husband is. But, really she has nothing to fear from Lachlan, yes he maybe broody and secretive but he is a good man, a man who hasn’t had the best of starts in life, a man who so deserves some good luck.
Once they are at Lachlans home of; Lochmore Castle this is where our couple really learn about each other, they grow as a couple and as individuals and their confidence for one and other grows. It is utterly breath-taking watching Lachlan and Flora go on their journey of discovery, and realising that; yes they do deserve love and that the person right in-front of them is just person who completes them. I love that!
My goodness, did I mention how much I have fallen head over heels in love with Lachaln? This is how a hero should be written, this is my kind of hero! He really is perfect, hardworking working class man, who has literally dragged himself up from a terrible beginning. Self made, blunt, brooding, sensitive, gorgeous inside and out, proud. I love how he is so focused on trying to make life better for the poor and under privileged, he is a fair man and wants to do his best for his workers and if I knew only that about him I would be enthralled by him. How a man treats his workers says so much about that mans true character and this man is wonderful. Did I mention he was perfect and handsome?
This is really stunning! Mesmerizing, atmospheric, rich in emotion and mystery and so beautifully written. It is a beautiful love story with a mysterious undercurrent that makes you look up and think; ooh, I wonder what is happening here? Or Where will this story lead? It keeps you completely gripped throughout and on the last page you weep that’s it’s over and want to re-read it straight away and then you are on tenter hooks desperate for the next book in the series.
I can’t praise this enough, I am literally lost for words at just how captivating this is. Janice Preston has written the perfect historical romance, one that I cannot recommend enough.
Stunningly perfect!
I love it when author’s go out of their comfort zone and try a new era, and I think that Ms Preston has out done her self here. I was literally blown away with the excellence of this book, I cannot praise Janice Preston enough. This has ‘Best Selling’ and ‘Made to be a Movie’ written all over it.
Janice Preston, what have you done to me? How can I possibly love another hero now? Lachlan has now ruined me for all other heroes, I will never be the same again.
So His Convenient Highland Wedding is the start of a whole new series; The Lochmore Legacy which is so refreshingly new and unique in it’s own right. The Lochmore Legacy is written by four amazing historical romance authors; Janice Preston, Lara Temple, Elisabeth Hobbes and Nicole Locke and it will span across four separate era’s, it will start in the Victorian and go back through Regency, Tudor and finally end in Medieval where all the secrets will be revealed. The connection between the books will be linked with the setting (The Castle) and the feuding families, This is such an original idea, it’s imaginative and adventurous and not something we usually come across in romance and I can’t wait to see where this series is going to go, judging by this first instalment The Lochmore Legacy is going to be something special; one of those once in a life times things.
But, that is all for the future I really much stop babbling and focus on the here and now.
This is in all essence a ‘Marriage of Convenience’ but I see it as much, much more than that. It is a finding love in the most unexpected places entwined with a stonking great mysterious undercurrent that runs throughout the book and believe me, I was gripped!
Businessman Lachlan McNeill – oh, be still my beating heart! – is trying to get his newly founded Whisky brewery up and running, he is confident that his new blend will become a great whiskey. There is just one thing standing in his way, and that is who is. He is a self-made man, new money as some call him and not an aristocrat – can you see why I am so much in love with this guy? He is a man who has a troubled and dark past – one of which he is deeply ashamed of and one which he knows if society ever found out about his business would probably fail. He hides his past and plans to get himself a patron, an up standing man of society who will be able to help, but to get that he needs a wife with some clout. Which is why he marries Lady Flora.
Flora McCrieff is basically sold to the highest bidder, that’s how I saw the way her family treated her. After bringing scandal to her house and with her family in dire need of money, Flora is married off to Lachlan. A man she never even set eyes upon until the day of her wedding, she is saddened that her family would do such a thing and depressed that she has been shunned from society and now she feeling a mixture of fear and trepidation at what kind of man her husband is. But, really she has nothing to fear from Lachlan, yes he maybe broody and secretive but he is a good man, a man who hasn’t had the best of starts in life, a man who so deserves some good luck.
Once they are at Lachlans home of; Lochmore Castle this is where our couple really learn about each other, they grow as a couple and as individuals and their confidence for one and other grows. It is utterly breath-taking watching Lachlan and Flora go on their journey of discovery, and realising that; yes they do deserve love and that the person right in-front of them is just person who completes them. I love that!
My goodness, did I mention how much I have fallen head over heels in love with Lachaln? This is how a hero should be written, this is my kind of hero! He really is perfect, hardworking working class man, who has literally dragged himself up from a terrible beginning. Self made, blunt, brooding, sensitive, gorgeous inside and out, proud. I love how he is so focused on trying to make life better for the poor and under privileged, he is a fair man and wants to do his best for his workers and if I knew only that about him I would be enthralled by him. How a man treats his workers says so much about that mans true character and this man is wonderful. Did I mention he was perfect and handsome?
This is really stunning! Mesmerizing, atmospheric, rich in emotion and mystery and so beautifully written. It is a beautiful love story with a mysterious undercurrent that makes you look up and think; ooh, I wonder what is happening here? Or Where will this story lead? It keeps you completely gripped throughout and on the last page you weep that’s it’s over and want to re-read it straight away and then you are on tenter hooks desperate for the next book in the series.
I can’t praise this enough, I am literally lost for words at just how captivating this is. Janice Preston has written the perfect historical romance, one that I cannot recommend enough.
Stunningly perfect!
March 14, 2019
This was such a good read, very likeable main characters in Lady Flora McCreiff and Lachlan McNeill. They came from completely different backgrounds, Lachlan was a self made man and Flora was the daughter of an earl. Flora felt that she was ignored in her family and although she had ideas for improving the family’s wealth, her father wouldn’t listen to a female. In Lachlan, Flora found a man who would listen to her ideas. Lachlan was a character I couldn’t help but like, he had been through so much and was determined to help the poor and needy. However, there were a number of misunderstandings at the beginning, mainly due to not talking plainly to each other. This book underlines how some of the aristocracy had no room for those not on the same social scale and how some could be ostracised through no fault of their own. There are secrets to unfold and a mystery that will eventually be solved in the rest of the series. I liked the concept of this series, in that each book will take a step back in time. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 2, 2019
Review available on release day.
Merged review:
Though I’m suspicious of new-to-me authors, I was willing to give Janice Preston a try because: a) MOC is my favourite trope and b) the word “highland” in the title always evokes a frisson of excitement and anticipation. What I found was an enjoyable, uneven romance. But, first, to the plotty details!
Because His Convenient Highland Wedding is the first of a four-book, four-author series centring around a mystery, Preston’s novel opens with a silly scene of the heroine’s discovery of a creepy tower and mysterious brooch. Flash-forward seven years and heroine Lady Flora McCrieff, having refused the lecherous old goat her father had arranged for her to marry (important to saving the straitened family estate) is in disgrace with fortune and her family’s eyes. To make up for her refusal to save the family fortune and marry within her class, her father compels her to marry second-best, wealthy but from lowly beginnings whiskey-baron Lachlan McNeill. Lachlan is looking to make inroads to the aristocracy for his whiskey and hopes Flora will help him achieve his goal. Little does he know, Flora is in social purgatory …
Preston’s romance sees its finest hour in the first half. She captures the awkwardness and misunderstanding between two well-meaning people who don’t know each other working out physical and emotional intimacy. It is to Preston’s credit that she makes it easy to see how Lachlan and Flora may fall into a cool, courteous, unhappy marriage. But it isn’t what they deserve. Flora and Lachlan are brimming with the need to love and be loved, kind, and giving. However, they were beaten down and have a hard time leaving their reticent shells. Lachlan is too much aware of his inferior status, his humble beginnings à la Jean Valjean, lack of breeding and education. Flora is too aware of her family censure, which has diminished her, and is embarrassed and guilt-stricken that Lachlan was promised an influential wife who can’t deliver social sway. Thankfully, Preston doesn’t make too much of these details, but concentrates on the cringe-worthy hurts and misconceptions the MOC trope delivers.
Lachlan and Flora are also stiff and humorless and I couldn’t embrace them with liking. But I understood their predicament, appreciated it, and wanted them to resolve their marriage woes and be happy. They were deserving, if charmless. Flora’s dog, on the other hand, Bandit, was an utter charmer and he made every scene better by providing much-needed comic relief. What worked regarding Flora and Lachlan was how they entered their marriage as unhappy people and how Preston slowly but surely, with equally forward movement and missteps, brought them closer and gaining in confidence and happiness. Unfortunately, Lachlan’s secondary narrative, his search for a lost family member, derailed the romance’s last third. It was abrupt and the new character was over-the-top screechy. Her response to Lachlan’s re-connection didn’t make sense given the character’s circumstances.
The other problem with the romance’s resolution was what I call the too-much-happiness factor. In the last few chapters, there is so much reconciliation that it made for a clunky conclusion. There were character turn-abouts in response and motivation that give reader-whiplash and eye-rolls. Moreover, the insertion of an ominous return to the initial tower mystery felt conveniently thrust into the narrative, lest we forget and not read the series. Sadly, this didn’t work for this reader and she’ll end her relationship with the series at book one, thank you very much. With Miss Austen, we say Preston’s His Convenient Highland Wedding offers “tolerable comfort,” Mansfield Park.
Janice Preston’s His Convenient Highland Wedding is published by Harlequin Books. It releases today, April 1st, and may be found at your preferred vendor. I received an e-ARC from Harlequin, via Netgalley.
Merged review:
Though I’m suspicious of new-to-me authors, I was willing to give Janice Preston a try because: a) MOC is my favourite trope and b) the word “highland” in the title always evokes a frisson of excitement and anticipation. What I found was an enjoyable, uneven romance. But, first, to the plotty details!
Because His Convenient Highland Wedding is the first of a four-book, four-author series centring around a mystery, Preston’s novel opens with a silly scene of the heroine’s discovery of a creepy tower and mysterious brooch. Flash-forward seven years and heroine Lady Flora McCrieff, having refused the lecherous old goat her father had arranged for her to marry (important to saving the straitened family estate) is in disgrace with fortune and her family’s eyes. To make up for her refusal to save the family fortune and marry within her class, her father compels her to marry second-best, wealthy but from lowly beginnings whiskey-baron Lachlan McNeill. Lachlan is looking to make inroads to the aristocracy for his whiskey and hopes Flora will help him achieve his goal. Little does he know, Flora is in social purgatory …
Preston’s romance sees its finest hour in the first half. She captures the awkwardness and misunderstanding between two well-meaning people who don’t know each other working out physical and emotional intimacy. It is to Preston’s credit that she makes it easy to see how Lachlan and Flora may fall into a cool, courteous, unhappy marriage. But it isn’t what they deserve. Flora and Lachlan are brimming with the need to love and be loved, kind, and giving. However, they were beaten down and have a hard time leaving their reticent shells. Lachlan is too much aware of his inferior status, his humble beginnings à la Jean Valjean, lack of breeding and education. Flora is too aware of her family censure, which has diminished her, and is embarrassed and guilt-stricken that Lachlan was promised an influential wife who can’t deliver social sway. Thankfully, Preston doesn’t make too much of these details, but concentrates on the cringe-worthy hurts and misconceptions the MOC trope delivers.
Lachlan and Flora are also stiff and humorless and I couldn’t embrace them with liking. But I understood their predicament, appreciated it, and wanted them to resolve their marriage woes and be happy. They were deserving, if charmless. Flora’s dog, on the other hand, Bandit, was an utter charmer and he made every scene better by providing much-needed comic relief. What worked regarding Flora and Lachlan was how they entered their marriage as unhappy people and how Preston slowly but surely, with equally forward movement and missteps, brought them closer and gaining in confidence and happiness. Unfortunately, Lachlan’s secondary narrative, his search for a lost family member, derailed the romance’s last third. It was abrupt and the new character was over-the-top screechy. Her response to Lachlan’s re-connection didn’t make sense given the character’s circumstances.
The other problem with the romance’s resolution was what I call the too-much-happiness factor. In the last few chapters, there is so much reconciliation that it made for a clunky conclusion. There were character turn-abouts in response and motivation that give reader-whiplash and eye-rolls. Moreover, the insertion of an ominous return to the initial tower mystery felt conveniently thrust into the narrative, lest we forget and not read the series. Sadly, this didn’t work for this reader and she’ll end her relationship with the series at book one, thank you very much. With Miss Austen, we say Preston’s His Convenient Highland Wedding offers “tolerable comfort,” Mansfield Park.
Janice Preston’s His Convenient Highland Wedding is published by Harlequin Books. It releases today, April 1st, and may be found at your preferred vendor. I received an e-ARC from Harlequin, via Netgalley.
April 3, 2019
I have only recently started to read historical Mills and Boon mainly due to local author Elisabeth Hobbs who is an amazing writer of books that are full to the brim with realistic characters and authentic historical detailing, not to mention some beautifully crafted relationships. When I heard that her latest book was to be part of a series called The Lochmore Legacy, I was intrigued enough to want to read ALL the books in the series and not just hers! And so I have started at the beginning with His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston.
Flora McCrieff is forced to marry her fathers choice of husband after she brings disgrace on their family name. The marriage brings financial security to the McCrieffs and a place in society for her new groom. Lachlan McNeill is a gorgeous man but one of few words and many secrets which becomes apparent after their wedding night when he retreats into a world that Flora knows nothing about. What could he be hiding and will it affect the growing attraction between them?
Well now, what’s not to love about this book?!
A gorgeous, mysterious Scotsman living in a castle ✔️
Family secrets ✔️
A beautiful heroine ✔️
Romantic tension ✔️
And did I already mention the Scotsman??!! Seriously, I was sucked into this period romance from the very first chapter and thoroughly enjoyed every moment! There’s an interesting discovery by Flora very early on in the book that I think will be mentioned more as the series progresses and I’m already very intrigued. Flora meets with characters that have fascinating backstories and I can’t wait to read about them in future books.
But back to Flora and Lachlan! Their relationship was a gradually developed liaison that sizzled with anticipation and I was rooting for them to put aside their misunderstandings and become the perfect match that I knew they were destined to be. I actually read the whole book on the train where it took me on a journey of discovery far more exciting than the countryside I was passing through! And I fell in love myself, not just with Flora and Lachlan, but also with Janice Preston’s writing and I’m now going to check out her previous books as well.
This is a must read for historical romance fans and one I won’t forget in a hurry!
Flora McCrieff is forced to marry her fathers choice of husband after she brings disgrace on their family name. The marriage brings financial security to the McCrieffs and a place in society for her new groom. Lachlan McNeill is a gorgeous man but one of few words and many secrets which becomes apparent after their wedding night when he retreats into a world that Flora knows nothing about. What could he be hiding and will it affect the growing attraction between them?
Well now, what’s not to love about this book?!
A gorgeous, mysterious Scotsman living in a castle ✔️
Family secrets ✔️
A beautiful heroine ✔️
Romantic tension ✔️
And did I already mention the Scotsman??!! Seriously, I was sucked into this period romance from the very first chapter and thoroughly enjoyed every moment! There’s an interesting discovery by Flora very early on in the book that I think will be mentioned more as the series progresses and I’m already very intrigued. Flora meets with characters that have fascinating backstories and I can’t wait to read about them in future books.
But back to Flora and Lachlan! Their relationship was a gradually developed liaison that sizzled with anticipation and I was rooting for them to put aside their misunderstandings and become the perfect match that I knew they were destined to be. I actually read the whole book on the train where it took me on a journey of discovery far more exciting than the countryside I was passing through! And I fell in love myself, not just with Flora and Lachlan, but also with Janice Preston’s writing and I’m now going to check out her previous books as well.
This is a must read for historical romance fans and one I won’t forget in a hurry!
April 12, 2019
Lachlan McNeill May be insanely rich, but he came from a lowly status. When he weds an Earl’s daughter, Flora McCrieff, he knows having her on his arm will open a lot of doors for him. Flora once denied a Duke, and now she is married to Lachlan. Flora desperately wants love and family, and truly hopes that being bound to Lachlan will fulfill those desires.
It is business first for Lachlan - mostly. He has another serious matter that also requires his time and attention. With everything going on for him, he has very little room for emotion. Also, Lachlan has experienced a difficult and painful past and this he feels he must keep secret from Flora.
As things progress, Flora and Lachlan eventually draw together, but it was never easy for them to do. They both have amazing strengths and it will take some doing for each of them to realize that. Kudos to Janice Preston for writing such powerful characters.
This touching story introduced deep and abiding live to two deserving people. Meanwhile the importance of family easily flowed throughout the pages. All in all this was a marvelous read, and a great start for what is certain to be a promising series.
His Convenient Highland Wedding is the first book in the Lochmore Legacy series. Interestingly, these books take pace across different eras. The other titles are, in order - Book 2, Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple, Book 3, A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes and Book 4, Secrets of a Highland Warrior by Nicole Locke.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
It is business first for Lachlan - mostly. He has another serious matter that also requires his time and attention. With everything going on for him, he has very little room for emotion. Also, Lachlan has experienced a difficult and painful past and this he feels he must keep secret from Flora.
As things progress, Flora and Lachlan eventually draw together, but it was never easy for them to do. They both have amazing strengths and it will take some doing for each of them to realize that. Kudos to Janice Preston for writing such powerful characters.
This touching story introduced deep and abiding live to two deserving people. Meanwhile the importance of family easily flowed throughout the pages. All in all this was a marvelous read, and a great start for what is certain to be a promising series.
His Convenient Highland Wedding is the first book in the Lochmore Legacy series. Interestingly, these books take pace across different eras. The other titles are, in order - Book 2, Unlaced by the Highland Duke by Lara Temple, Book 3, A Runaway Bride for the Highlander by Elisabeth Hobbes and Book 4, Secrets of a Highland Warrior by Nicole Locke.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
March 16, 2019
This is the first book in the The Lochmore Legacy series, which centres on Lochmore Castle through the ages! Earl’s daughter Flora McCrieff brought shame on her family once when she refused to marry a lecherous Duke, now she discovers she must enter a marriage of convenience with the impossibly rich but low born Lachlan McNeill. Following their wedding they return to his home Lochmore Castle which he bought a year ago.
I was drawn into the book from the prologue when Flora was a girl & discovered a skeleton & brooch in a locked tower of her family home. An engrossing read with a well written story that flows effortlessly. The characters are well rounded & have plenty of depth. I adored both Flora & Lachlan, she's the strong lady who’s intelligent & caring but also insecure, Lachlan whilst he's the brilliant businessman & is a self made man he’s also very protective but insecure. I loved how their relationship grew throughout the book from strangers who meet for the first time at the altar to true partners. The book took me through a gamut of emotions & my heart bled for Flora’s treatment by so called Ladies & also bled for all Lachlan & Anna had suffered. There is the mystery of the brooch which wasn't resolved & which makes me want to read the rest of the series one book after another & will be counting the days until the next book releases.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
I was drawn into the book from the prologue when Flora was a girl & discovered a skeleton & brooch in a locked tower of her family home. An engrossing read with a well written story that flows effortlessly. The characters are well rounded & have plenty of depth. I adored both Flora & Lachlan, she's the strong lady who’s intelligent & caring but also insecure, Lachlan whilst he's the brilliant businessman & is a self made man he’s also very protective but insecure. I loved how their relationship grew throughout the book from strangers who meet for the first time at the altar to true partners. The book took me through a gamut of emotions & my heart bled for Flora’s treatment by so called Ladies & also bled for all Lachlan & Anna had suffered. There is the mystery of the brooch which wasn't resolved & which makes me want to read the rest of the series one book after another & will be counting the days until the next book releases.
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 21, 2019
Well I was sat here thinking about how to write this review and I just kept on smiling because that is how gorgeous this story was. I was instantly transported to Scotland and it really made for a stunning setting as we meet Flora and Lachlan. Their first meeting is unusual but even from that first moment there is a wonderful chemistry between the pair which is built perfectly throughout by Janice Preston. Flora has such a warm and likeable personality along with a determined edge, I couldn’t help but root for her! Then add in Lachlan to the mix he is determined, brooding (sigh) and has a past that isn’t perfect. I really am trying to be vague about the plot but you really do get the most romantic story. It was made even more perfect as Janice Preston’s inspiration for the character is Richard Armitage.
The fact that there is a mystery running throughout this book and the following books in the series is a big positive for me. It was perfectly set up to make me very curious and I can’t wait to see how it will all play out in the series. However at the same time I loved Flora and Lachlan’s story how they slowly but surely built up a tentative friendship along with a chemistry that felt realistic and wasn’t rushed but carefully shown. I loved the way that this book also involved family whether it was estranged or lost. The minor characters all play an important part in this story along with some brilliant snippets of history that are perfectly placed.
Janice Preston consistently creates the most wonderful stories and His Convenient Highland Wedding is a perfect example of how well her characters and story really do come to life. This book is both romantic and charming along with carrying secrets that will captivate you until the final page! I can’t wait to uncover the mystery in this set of books and if book one is anything to go by then this is going to be a fabulous series!
The fact that there is a mystery running throughout this book and the following books in the series is a big positive for me. It was perfectly set up to make me very curious and I can’t wait to see how it will all play out in the series. However at the same time I loved Flora and Lachlan’s story how they slowly but surely built up a tentative friendship along with a chemistry that felt realistic and wasn’t rushed but carefully shown. I loved the way that this book also involved family whether it was estranged or lost. The minor characters all play an important part in this story along with some brilliant snippets of history that are perfectly placed.
Janice Preston consistently creates the most wonderful stories and His Convenient Highland Wedding is a perfect example of how well her characters and story really do come to life. This book is both romantic and charming along with carrying secrets that will captivate you until the final page! I can’t wait to uncover the mystery in this set of books and if book one is anything to go by then this is going to be a fabulous series!
April 18, 2019
Terrific start to the new series. I was hooked from the beginning and read the book in one sitting. It opened with a young Flora, frustrated by her father's attitude toward her, dealing with her frustration by exploring an area of her home that was expressly forbidden. She paid for that disobedience with the horrifying discovery of a skeleton hidden in the tower and was unable to talk about it for fear of the repercussions. Two things she brought away from the experience was a silver brooch found on the skeleton's clothing, and the need to find out more about it. There was a touch of the eerie in the emotions that Flora felt upon the discovery of the skeleton and again when contemplating the brooch.
Fast forward seven years. Flora was on the way to her wedding to a man she had never met, her father's attempt to repair the family fortunes. After the scandal she caused the previous year when she publicly refused to marry a duke, Flora was given no choice in this marriage. The guilt she felt overpowered her objections, and she desperately hoped that going through with the wedding would repair her relationship with her family.
Waiting for her at the altar was Lachlan O'Neill. Born in poverty, with tragedy and secrets in his past, Lachlan was now a very wealthy man. He had plans for his new whisky distillery and felt that marriage to the daughter of an earl would open doors to the upper echelons of society. Stunned by Flora's beauty and delicacy, he was suddenly filled with self-doubt.
The path to a happy future was not an easy one for Flora and Lachlan. While there was no doubt about the sparks of attraction that flew between them, both Flora and Lachlan suffered from crippling bouts of insecurity. Lachlan often felt like a bumbling, uncultured oaf around her, which caused him to withdraw into himself and hide behind his business. This caused Flora to believe that she was lacking in any number of ways, which fed her feelings of worthlessness. I ached for them on their wedding night, as what could have been the beginning of true intimacy was made awkward by the horrible advice Flora received from her mother and Lachlan's feelings of inadequacy. Away from the strictures of her father, Flora slowly began to assert herself. I loved seeing her face up to Lachlan and let him know what she needed. Afraid of doing the wrong things, Lachlan erred on the side of caution. I enjoyed his surprise and relief when Flora showed interest in his work.
Their first foray into society after their marriage did not go well. Flora's past transgressions were neither forgiven nor forgotten. Her inability to hold up her part of the bargain with Lachlan devastated her. I loved Lachlan's understanding and support when she confessed to the problem. This also gave Flora hope for the future of their marriage. The sparks of attraction continued to grow, but it seemed that every time they made progress, something would interrupt them. I ached for Flora as, time after time, Lachlan would leave her hurt and frustrated. I wanted to shake Lachlan for not telling her the truth behind those interruptions. An unexpected visit and some timely advice gave Flora the confidence to make some changes. I loved seeing Flora come into her own as her confidence grew. The dinner with her aunt and uncle was a prime example of what was possible with confidence and thinking outside the box. I especially enjoyed Flora's dedication to Lachlan's plans, and determination to be an asset. I enjoyed Lachlan's hint of jealousy, then his astonishment and approval of Flora's initiative.
I was so frustrated with Lachlan's refusal to come clean with Flora about his past. His constant retreats added to Flora's unhappiness and fears until she finally stood up for herself and what she wanted from her marriage. That strength and confidence and persistence finally broke through Lachlan's walls. His confessions of all that he'd been through were heartbreaking and emotional, as was his fear of Flora's reaction. Her compassion and understanding were not what he expected, and I loved seeing the difference it made. He wasn't completely clear of his demons, however, and family-induced stubbornness nearly derailed his progress. Flora also made progress with her own family, her newfound strength giving her the confidence to face them all. The scene with her father was awesome. I loved the surprise she arranged for Lachlan for Hogmanay, and the follow-on epilogue was excellent.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this book was the look at the lifestyles of the period. Instead of just seeing the upper classes, a lot of time was spent on the social problems of the day. I especially liked how Lachlan's experiences influenced his actions as a business owner. Flora had been quite sheltered and the things she learned after her marriage were eye-opening. The change from typical earl's daughter to a supporter of social justice was a moving one. I liked the support and encouragement she received from both Lachlan and her aunt at the dinner in Glasgow.
The story of the silver brooch and skeleton that Flora found was an intriguing one. The brooch itself was important to Flora and she wore it often. It was interesting that it looked familiar to the Duchess of Lochmore, though she couldn't recall why. It was quite spooky to see Flora's reaction when she stumbled into one of the crypts at the Lochmore chapel. I am anxious to read the rest of the books in the series to get the rest of the story. This one is done a little differently. Instead of moving forward in time, this series will trace the Lochmore and McCrieff families into the past, going from the current Victorian age to the Regency, then the Tudor, and finally to the Medieval period.
Fast forward seven years. Flora was on the way to her wedding to a man she had never met, her father's attempt to repair the family fortunes. After the scandal she caused the previous year when she publicly refused to marry a duke, Flora was given no choice in this marriage. The guilt she felt overpowered her objections, and she desperately hoped that going through with the wedding would repair her relationship with her family.
Waiting for her at the altar was Lachlan O'Neill. Born in poverty, with tragedy and secrets in his past, Lachlan was now a very wealthy man. He had plans for his new whisky distillery and felt that marriage to the daughter of an earl would open doors to the upper echelons of society. Stunned by Flora's beauty and delicacy, he was suddenly filled with self-doubt.
The path to a happy future was not an easy one for Flora and Lachlan. While there was no doubt about the sparks of attraction that flew between them, both Flora and Lachlan suffered from crippling bouts of insecurity. Lachlan often felt like a bumbling, uncultured oaf around her, which caused him to withdraw into himself and hide behind his business. This caused Flora to believe that she was lacking in any number of ways, which fed her feelings of worthlessness. I ached for them on their wedding night, as what could have been the beginning of true intimacy was made awkward by the horrible advice Flora received from her mother and Lachlan's feelings of inadequacy. Away from the strictures of her father, Flora slowly began to assert herself. I loved seeing her face up to Lachlan and let him know what she needed. Afraid of doing the wrong things, Lachlan erred on the side of caution. I enjoyed his surprise and relief when Flora showed interest in his work.
Their first foray into society after their marriage did not go well. Flora's past transgressions were neither forgiven nor forgotten. Her inability to hold up her part of the bargain with Lachlan devastated her. I loved Lachlan's understanding and support when she confessed to the problem. This also gave Flora hope for the future of their marriage. The sparks of attraction continued to grow, but it seemed that every time they made progress, something would interrupt them. I ached for Flora as, time after time, Lachlan would leave her hurt and frustrated. I wanted to shake Lachlan for not telling her the truth behind those interruptions. An unexpected visit and some timely advice gave Flora the confidence to make some changes. I loved seeing Flora come into her own as her confidence grew. The dinner with her aunt and uncle was a prime example of what was possible with confidence and thinking outside the box. I especially enjoyed Flora's dedication to Lachlan's plans, and determination to be an asset. I enjoyed Lachlan's hint of jealousy, then his astonishment and approval of Flora's initiative.
I was so frustrated with Lachlan's refusal to come clean with Flora about his past. His constant retreats added to Flora's unhappiness and fears until she finally stood up for herself and what she wanted from her marriage. That strength and confidence and persistence finally broke through Lachlan's walls. His confessions of all that he'd been through were heartbreaking and emotional, as was his fear of Flora's reaction. Her compassion and understanding were not what he expected, and I loved seeing the difference it made. He wasn't completely clear of his demons, however, and family-induced stubbornness nearly derailed his progress. Flora also made progress with her own family, her newfound strength giving her the confidence to face them all. The scene with her father was awesome. I loved the surprise she arranged for Lachlan for Hogmanay, and the follow-on epilogue was excellent.
One of the things I really enjoyed about this book was the look at the lifestyles of the period. Instead of just seeing the upper classes, a lot of time was spent on the social problems of the day. I especially liked how Lachlan's experiences influenced his actions as a business owner. Flora had been quite sheltered and the things she learned after her marriage were eye-opening. The change from typical earl's daughter to a supporter of social justice was a moving one. I liked the support and encouragement she received from both Lachlan and her aunt at the dinner in Glasgow.
The story of the silver brooch and skeleton that Flora found was an intriguing one. The brooch itself was important to Flora and she wore it often. It was interesting that it looked familiar to the Duchess of Lochmore, though she couldn't recall why. It was quite spooky to see Flora's reaction when she stumbled into one of the crypts at the Lochmore chapel. I am anxious to read the rest of the books in the series to get the rest of the story. This one is done a little differently. Instead of moving forward in time, this series will trace the Lochmore and McCrieff families into the past, going from the current Victorian age to the Regency, then the Tudor, and finally to the Medieval period.
March 9, 2019
“Grudges live long in the Highlands…”
The Lochmore Legacy series begins with this excellent opener from Janice Preston.
Flora McCrieff has never met Lachlan McNeill, and doesn’t even know his name until she meets him at the altar on their wedding day. Having rejected a proposal from the Duke of Galkirk the year before, Flora’s father, desperate for financial aid, arranges for his eldest daughter to marry successful businessman Lachlan on the promise of him providing dowries for his other daughters.
In spite of this strange start to their relationship, Janice Preston’s writing style means that these wonderful, well created characters seem somewhat well suited from the start, despite the circumstances, and she really does make you care about their potential future happiness.
What is interesting here is that, whilst Flora is the eldest daughter of an Earl, Lachlan is plain ‘Mr. McNeill’, and his past, and how he made his fortune is hidden from society. Indeed there are some nice comic asides amongst the high society gatherings as rumours abound regarding Lachlan’s past. The truth is rather tragic though, and without spoiling the story, Lachlan’s confession to Flora about what he has been through is an emotional and exceptionally well written section of the book.
Lachlan and Flora may initially seem like opposites, but it is interesting to note that they both believe their past to be the reason they seem to be outcasts from society. As the book progresses, the author seamlessly creates a strong believable romance which you can see developing into a meaningful marriage, and the fact that Flora is strong willed enough to fight for what she wants from her marriage makes her all the more likeable.
The supporting characters also deserve mention, with the current Duchess of Lochmore, Joane, providing support for Flora as she adjusts to her married life. Special mention must also go to the scene-stealing private detective, Tom Delaney who Lachlan has hired to track down his sister. Regular readers of the author’s work will know she likes to have characters crop up in other books, and if a detective is ever needed in a future story, Mr. Delaney must surely get a mention,
As much as this is Flora and Lachlan’s story, and you really do root for them to get their deserved happy ending, this book also marks the start of the Lochmore Legacy, and the depth of mystery that is revealed paves the way for what should be a fascinating series of books. The prologue is a strong opening with a young Flora discovering a body, and a silver broach locked away in the tower of Castle McCrieff, and as we quickly learn, a centuries old feud between the McCrieffs and the Lochmores has long rumbled across the Highlands, causing family rifts across generations. The fact that Lachlan has recently purchased Lochmore Castle allows further exploration of it’s history, and the vivid descriptions of the castles and it’s surroundings give the reader a strong sense of place as we begin to unravel the mysteries of the past. It would spoil the story to say more about this, but as the revelations begin, the reader will be very keen to learn more.
What I loved about the concept for this series when I first heard about it, was that, whilst it would start in the Victorian era, the following books would move backwards in time to reveal the history of Lochmore, and so, whilst this book neatly concludes Lachlan and Flora’s story, there are enough unanswered mysteries and the origins of the McCrieff/Lochmore feud to leave you keen to learn more about the past.
Over to you, Lara Temple, for book two…
Thank you to Janice Preston for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Lochmore Legacy series begins with this excellent opener from Janice Preston.
Flora McCrieff has never met Lachlan McNeill, and doesn’t even know his name until she meets him at the altar on their wedding day. Having rejected a proposal from the Duke of Galkirk the year before, Flora’s father, desperate for financial aid, arranges for his eldest daughter to marry successful businessman Lachlan on the promise of him providing dowries for his other daughters.
In spite of this strange start to their relationship, Janice Preston’s writing style means that these wonderful, well created characters seem somewhat well suited from the start, despite the circumstances, and she really does make you care about their potential future happiness.
What is interesting here is that, whilst Flora is the eldest daughter of an Earl, Lachlan is plain ‘Mr. McNeill’, and his past, and how he made his fortune is hidden from society. Indeed there are some nice comic asides amongst the high society gatherings as rumours abound regarding Lachlan’s past. The truth is rather tragic though, and without spoiling the story, Lachlan’s confession to Flora about what he has been through is an emotional and exceptionally well written section of the book.
Lachlan and Flora may initially seem like opposites, but it is interesting to note that they both believe their past to be the reason they seem to be outcasts from society. As the book progresses, the author seamlessly creates a strong believable romance which you can see developing into a meaningful marriage, and the fact that Flora is strong willed enough to fight for what she wants from her marriage makes her all the more likeable.
The supporting characters also deserve mention, with the current Duchess of Lochmore, Joane, providing support for Flora as she adjusts to her married life. Special mention must also go to the scene-stealing private detective, Tom Delaney who Lachlan has hired to track down his sister. Regular readers of the author’s work will know she likes to have characters crop up in other books, and if a detective is ever needed in a future story, Mr. Delaney must surely get a mention,
As much as this is Flora and Lachlan’s story, and you really do root for them to get their deserved happy ending, this book also marks the start of the Lochmore Legacy, and the depth of mystery that is revealed paves the way for what should be a fascinating series of books. The prologue is a strong opening with a young Flora discovering a body, and a silver broach locked away in the tower of Castle McCrieff, and as we quickly learn, a centuries old feud between the McCrieffs and the Lochmores has long rumbled across the Highlands, causing family rifts across generations. The fact that Lachlan has recently purchased Lochmore Castle allows further exploration of it’s history, and the vivid descriptions of the castles and it’s surroundings give the reader a strong sense of place as we begin to unravel the mysteries of the past. It would spoil the story to say more about this, but as the revelations begin, the reader will be very keen to learn more.
What I loved about the concept for this series when I first heard about it, was that, whilst it would start in the Victorian era, the following books would move backwards in time to reveal the history of Lochmore, and so, whilst this book neatly concludes Lachlan and Flora’s story, there are enough unanswered mysteries and the origins of the McCrieff/Lochmore feud to leave you keen to learn more about the past.
Over to you, Lara Temple, for book two…
Thank you to Janice Preston for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 26, 2019
As reviewed at Roses Are Blue: https://wp.me/p3QRh4-Tr
The LOCHMORE LEGACY is an interesting series of four books which take place in different eras, but involve the same mystery. Rather uniquely, the stories start in the Victorian era, and each book goes backward in time, and reveals another piece of the puzzle. In book one, Flora McCrieff discovers a shocking secret in her family home. It’s something she can’t ask anyone about, as she was somewhere she was forbidden to be. Her marriage home leads to another discovery that appears related. While the mystery will wind through all four books, be assured that Flora and Lachlan will achieve their happy ever after in HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING.
Flora McCrieff caused shame for her family, as well as her own social ruin when she refused to marry a duke, and publicly called him out for being the lecher he is. Flora’s father was counting on the money the marriage would generate for his sadly depleted estate, and is furious with Flora. Now, several months later, he has secretly arranged a marriage for Flora and a wealthy businessman, Lachlan McNeill. He withholds the information from Flora until a mere three days before the wedding, and doesn’t even allow the couple to meet until they face each other at the altar.
Lachlan is not an aristocrat. His family was so poor that he was arrested while attempting to steal a loaf of bread to feed them. That theft resulted in fifteen year old Lachlan being transported to Australia for seven years. He did have some luck after he served his time. His hard work caught the notice of a man who was willing to take Lachlan on as a partner, then left him his property after his death. Lachlan continued to build up his wealth with the intention of coming back to Scotland a rich man and supporting his family. He comes back only to find that his mother and siblings have died, all except his sister, Anna, who is nowhere to be found. While he continues to search for Anna, he needs help in getting his latest venture off the ground. He’s created a new blend of whisky, but he needs buyers. An aristocratic bride will have the contacts he needs, and Flora, as the daughter of an earl, seems a perfect choice.
Since Lachlan was not permitted to meet Flora before the wedding, he half expected her to have some major flaw, some reason that her father would marry her off to a commoner. He’s pleasantly surprised to find her very beautiful and soft spoken. Flora is so used to being browbeaten down by her father, that she’s very timid around her new husband, walking on eggshells, expecting that Lachlan will be the same type of man. As they travel to their new home, Flora is shocked to see that he now owns Lochmore Castle, which is the former home of her family’s enemy of many generations, the Lochmores.
The newlywed couple does have a wedding night, but it’s less than stellar, due to Flora’s nervousness and her mother’s erroneous advice ringing in her head. Realizing that Flora wasn’t satisfied, Lachlan can’t leave fast enough, depriving Flora of any comfort from just being held. This sets the tone for their marriage. Lachlan now feels inadequate while Flora feels undesirable, because he chooses to stay away from her bed. During the day, he is so busy with his companies and interests, that he rarely has time for Flora, though he is open and willing to listen to her suggestions and ideas, something her father never did.
Despite the fact that they have no intimate life, and are both riddled with doubts and insecurities, Flora and Lachlan begin to have a genuine respect and caring for each other. When they finally reveal their secrets, their reactions are sensitive, and warmly understanding. I love how Lachlan doesn’t blame Flora for refusing the duke’s proposal, even though her somewhat tattered reputation doesn’t give him the connections he originally sought by marrying her. Flora’s reaction at learning that Lachlan has a history as a prisoner is compassionate, and doesn’t lessen him at all in her eyes.
The slowly developing love and attraction between Flora and Lachlan makes for wonderful reading. While outwardly strong and dynamic, Lachlan is suffering and feeling guilt over his family, as well as feeling unworthy of his wife. Flora’s family had always made her feel worthless, except for what value she could bring them through marriage. Lachlan and Flora are amazing people, who have a lot to offer each other and to the world. HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING brings two wounded souls together, allowing them to heal, to make the world a better place, and to find genuine love with each other. I love this well written, warm, and romantic story, and look forward to the upcoming books in the LOCHMORE LEGACY.
The LOCHMORE LEGACY is an interesting series of four books which take place in different eras, but involve the same mystery. Rather uniquely, the stories start in the Victorian era, and each book goes backward in time, and reveals another piece of the puzzle. In book one, Flora McCrieff discovers a shocking secret in her family home. It’s something she can’t ask anyone about, as she was somewhere she was forbidden to be. Her marriage home leads to another discovery that appears related. While the mystery will wind through all four books, be assured that Flora and Lachlan will achieve their happy ever after in HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING.
Flora McCrieff caused shame for her family, as well as her own social ruin when she refused to marry a duke, and publicly called him out for being the lecher he is. Flora’s father was counting on the money the marriage would generate for his sadly depleted estate, and is furious with Flora. Now, several months later, he has secretly arranged a marriage for Flora and a wealthy businessman, Lachlan McNeill. He withholds the information from Flora until a mere three days before the wedding, and doesn’t even allow the couple to meet until they face each other at the altar.
Lachlan is not an aristocrat. His family was so poor that he was arrested while attempting to steal a loaf of bread to feed them. That theft resulted in fifteen year old Lachlan being transported to Australia for seven years. He did have some luck after he served his time. His hard work caught the notice of a man who was willing to take Lachlan on as a partner, then left him his property after his death. Lachlan continued to build up his wealth with the intention of coming back to Scotland a rich man and supporting his family. He comes back only to find that his mother and siblings have died, all except his sister, Anna, who is nowhere to be found. While he continues to search for Anna, he needs help in getting his latest venture off the ground. He’s created a new blend of whisky, but he needs buyers. An aristocratic bride will have the contacts he needs, and Flora, as the daughter of an earl, seems a perfect choice.
Since Lachlan was not permitted to meet Flora before the wedding, he half expected her to have some major flaw, some reason that her father would marry her off to a commoner. He’s pleasantly surprised to find her very beautiful and soft spoken. Flora is so used to being browbeaten down by her father, that she’s very timid around her new husband, walking on eggshells, expecting that Lachlan will be the same type of man. As they travel to their new home, Flora is shocked to see that he now owns Lochmore Castle, which is the former home of her family’s enemy of many generations, the Lochmores.
The newlywed couple does have a wedding night, but it’s less than stellar, due to Flora’s nervousness and her mother’s erroneous advice ringing in her head. Realizing that Flora wasn’t satisfied, Lachlan can’t leave fast enough, depriving Flora of any comfort from just being held. This sets the tone for their marriage. Lachlan now feels inadequate while Flora feels undesirable, because he chooses to stay away from her bed. During the day, he is so busy with his companies and interests, that he rarely has time for Flora, though he is open and willing to listen to her suggestions and ideas, something her father never did.
Despite the fact that they have no intimate life, and are both riddled with doubts and insecurities, Flora and Lachlan begin to have a genuine respect and caring for each other. When they finally reveal their secrets, their reactions are sensitive, and warmly understanding. I love how Lachlan doesn’t blame Flora for refusing the duke’s proposal, even though her somewhat tattered reputation doesn’t give him the connections he originally sought by marrying her. Flora’s reaction at learning that Lachlan has a history as a prisoner is compassionate, and doesn’t lessen him at all in her eyes.
The slowly developing love and attraction between Flora and Lachlan makes for wonderful reading. While outwardly strong and dynamic, Lachlan is suffering and feeling guilt over his family, as well as feeling unworthy of his wife. Flora’s family had always made her feel worthless, except for what value she could bring them through marriage. Lachlan and Flora are amazing people, who have a lot to offer each other and to the world. HIS CONVENIENT HIGHLAND WEDDING brings two wounded souls together, allowing them to heal, to make the world a better place, and to find genuine love with each other. I love this well written, warm, and romantic story, and look forward to the upcoming books in the LOCHMORE LEGACY.
October 13, 2019
This was a pretty middle of the road read for me, lacking sparkle and challenge, but pleasant enough before bed.
It’s a traditional marriage of convenience plot, with Lachlan McNeill, a Glasgow ruffian made good through his business acumen, marrying the oldest daughter of a Highland Earl. Flora McCrieff’s family are in straightened circumstances and, having already refused a lecherous old Duke, she feels beholden to marry McNeill despite his humble origins. He’s willing to shore up the clan’s failing fortunes in return for the credibility of her title to further build his business empire.
While they have an undeniable physical attraction, both struggle to understand and express their emotions. Lachlan because he’s a typical Alpha Male who sees feelings as a vulnerability, and Flora because she’s sheltered and young. The pair spend most of the book misunderstanding one another’s intentions and meanings, and drawing maximum angst from some low level conflict.
It potters along gently and persistently, if with some problematic elements. There’s a subplot involving Lachlan’s missing younger sister, for example, that leads to a rather unfortunate presentation of sex work. But I liked the development of Flora’s character: the way she has to build herself up and take control of her life in the absence of anyone to do it for her. Also, there is a cute dog.
It’s a traditional marriage of convenience plot, with Lachlan McNeill, a Glasgow ruffian made good through his business acumen, marrying the oldest daughter of a Highland Earl. Flora McCrieff’s family are in straightened circumstances and, having already refused a lecherous old Duke, she feels beholden to marry McNeill despite his humble origins. He’s willing to shore up the clan’s failing fortunes in return for the credibility of her title to further build his business empire.
While they have an undeniable physical attraction, both struggle to understand and express their emotions. Lachlan because he’s a typical Alpha Male who sees feelings as a vulnerability, and Flora because she’s sheltered and young. The pair spend most of the book misunderstanding one another’s intentions and meanings, and drawing maximum angst from some low level conflict.
It potters along gently and persistently, if with some problematic elements. There’s a subplot involving Lachlan’s missing younger sister, for example, that leads to a rather unfortunate presentation of sex work. But I liked the development of Flora’s character: the way she has to build herself up and take control of her life in the absence of anyone to do it for her. Also, there is a cute dog.
April 13, 2019
I have been looking forward to the Lochmore Legacy series ever since I heard that four of my favourite historical romance authors had teamed up to write four books in different eras with a common theme.
Janice Preston's Victorian-era story is a great series opener. Flora and Lachlan bring a lot of baggage to their union. They are strangers when they marry and their route to happiness is a wonderful tale. They both trip over their baggage multiple times on their journey and their HEA is oh so satisfying.
Ms Preston's writing makes her characters come alive. This was a time of great change. The Victorians raced towards industrialisation and the future with little care as to how it was affecting the men, women, and children who were being sucked into their powerhouse of mechanisation. Janice Preston portrays the poverty and hopelessness simply and with just a few scenes; short though they are they carry a punch that makes His Convenient Highland Wedding something far more than a simple Harlequin romance.
Usually this kind of series moves forward in time with each book but this one goes in the opposite direction and I am looking forward to finding out the origins of the two clans. The next book in the series is by Lara Temple.
Janice Preston's Victorian-era story is a great series opener. Flora and Lachlan bring a lot of baggage to their union. They are strangers when they marry and their route to happiness is a wonderful tale. They both trip over their baggage multiple times on their journey and their HEA is oh so satisfying.
Ms Preston's writing makes her characters come alive. This was a time of great change. The Victorians raced towards industrialisation and the future with little care as to how it was affecting the men, women, and children who were being sucked into their powerhouse of mechanisation. Janice Preston portrays the poverty and hopelessness simply and with just a few scenes; short though they are they carry a punch that makes His Convenient Highland Wedding something far more than a simple Harlequin romance.
Usually this kind of series moves forward in time with each book but this one goes in the opposite direction and I am looking forward to finding out the origins of the two clans. The next book in the series is by Lara Temple.
March 21, 2019
Set mainly in the Scottish Highlands and West coast, this story is full of rich imagery that makes it easy to visualise both the setting and the time period this story is set in.
The slums of Glasgow and Edinburgh form part of the story, and the poverty and deprivation found there in Victorian times, set against the riches of the lairds and the aristocracy is one of the elements covered in this interesting story.
This is the first story in the Lochmore Legacy, which written by four different historical romance authors travels back through time, exploring the secrets of the legacy. This story touches on the secrets, with a discovery made by the heroine Flora, and the feud that exists between two clans.
The romance element predominates as expected, and is based on a marriage of convenience trope. Flora’s youth and beauty are her family’s way out of financial ruin. Her father is dictatorial, and she has little choice in the man she marries. Her previous actions embroiled the family in a scandal, and so she is given no choice in marrying the second suitor her father presents her with.
There is a physical attraction between Flora and Lachlan but he is mostly withdrawn and refuses to engage with her emotionally. The reasons for this, Flora gradually discovers, as she loses her heart to her husband. Flora’s strength of character and her emancipation, set against the social strictures of the time lead to inevitable conflict. Lachlan is a philanthropist motivated by his roots and his secrets, he is more enlightened than the majority of men in Victorian society.
This is a romantic story set against a background of social deprivation and social divide. The characters are believable, and the hero and heroine are easy to empathise. This is a complex story, showcasing an interesting time in history.
The added dimension of the secrets of the Lochmore Legacy makes this an enjoyable, historically based romance.
I received a copy of this book from Mills and Boon via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
The slums of Glasgow and Edinburgh form part of the story, and the poverty and deprivation found there in Victorian times, set against the riches of the lairds and the aristocracy is one of the elements covered in this interesting story.
This is the first story in the Lochmore Legacy, which written by four different historical romance authors travels back through time, exploring the secrets of the legacy. This story touches on the secrets, with a discovery made by the heroine Flora, and the feud that exists between two clans.
The romance element predominates as expected, and is based on a marriage of convenience trope. Flora’s youth and beauty are her family’s way out of financial ruin. Her father is dictatorial, and she has little choice in the man she marries. Her previous actions embroiled the family in a scandal, and so she is given no choice in marrying the second suitor her father presents her with.
There is a physical attraction between Flora and Lachlan but he is mostly withdrawn and refuses to engage with her emotionally. The reasons for this, Flora gradually discovers, as she loses her heart to her husband. Flora’s strength of character and her emancipation, set against the social strictures of the time lead to inevitable conflict. Lachlan is a philanthropist motivated by his roots and his secrets, he is more enlightened than the majority of men in Victorian society.
This is a romantic story set against a background of social deprivation and social divide. The characters are believable, and the hero and heroine are easy to empathise. This is a complex story, showcasing an interesting time in history.
The added dimension of the secrets of the Lochmore Legacy makes this an enjoyable, historically based romance.
I received a copy of this book from Mills and Boon via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 6, 2019
His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston is book One in The Lochmore Legacy Series. This is the story of Flora McCrieff and Lachlan McNeill.
Flora turned down a Duke's marriage proposal which set her father off and open her eyes to their family need for money. Lachlan is looking to get his whisky business to do better and he needs a wife that has the connections to open some doors for him. Lachlan is willing to marry Flora site unseen due to her family connections, but of course the sparks fly when they do meet. Flora is unsure of Lachlan since he is a man of few words but they slowly start to learn more about the other.
Really enjoyed their story and looking forward to more books from this series.
Flora turned down a Duke's marriage proposal which set her father off and open her eyes to their family need for money. Lachlan is looking to get his whisky business to do better and he needs a wife that has the connections to open some doors for him. Lachlan is willing to marry Flora site unseen due to her family connections, but of course the sparks fly when they do meet. Flora is unsure of Lachlan since he is a man of few words but they slowly start to learn more about the other.
Really enjoyed their story and looking forward to more books from this series.
March 18, 2019
Book 1: His Convenient Highland Wedding by Janice Preston starts in 1841 in Castle McCrief were twelve year old Flora, one of the Earl’s daughters is feeling abit miffed with her father’s attitude towards her. Flora is a high spirited young girl and is full of ideas to help with the upkeep of the castle that is rapidly eating up the family’s wealth. Her suggestions have been rebuked so many times she feels dispirited. With her temper still seething Flora goes off for a wander in the castle to work off her steam but during this time she makes a startling discover that frightens her to her core.
Seven years on and the discovery that Flora found still leaves Flora with a chilled fear and questions she’s been afraid to ask. But now the castle is in bad disrepair and her father has virtually sold her off to a stranger and she is set to marry a wealthy gentleman. A man she’s never seen or heard of before but his money is good for the family home.
Lachlan McNeill is a ruggedly handsome man that has worked hard the last few years earning his wealth. He’s now bought himself a castle, a distillery and now a wife. His life is looking almost complete but there’s a hidden sorrow within Lachlan that he’s desperate to remedy. Life in the past was very difficult for Lachlan and his family and a tragedy has left him with a guilt he’s struggling to overcome. Outwardly Lachlan looks the perfect husband but he’s so overcome with the strain from the emotions brought on by his past that it’s placing a barrier against any future happiness with his wife.
I loved this story set in the Scottish Highlands, Janice Preston described the setting perfectly and you could feel a sense of ruggedness of the land and the remoteness to the nearby city of Glasgow. Flora had two different personalities in the story, she was so vibrant as a young girl but by the time she was due to wed her father had knocked the spirit out of her. Once wed she was quite shy and reserved but her spirit from long ago was still there slowly simmering in the background.
With secrets in both Flora and Lachlan’s past can the newlyweds help each other to overcome them? Will the feud from long ago lift it’s ugly head and what is the startling find that Flora discovered?
His Convenient Highland Wedding is gorgeously romantic with a storyline that is filled with secrets, drama and charm.
The Lochmore Legacy looks set to be a fantastic, exciting series with romance firmly at the heart of the stories. I can’t wait to read each story.
Seven years on and the discovery that Flora found still leaves Flora with a chilled fear and questions she’s been afraid to ask. But now the castle is in bad disrepair and her father has virtually sold her off to a stranger and she is set to marry a wealthy gentleman. A man she’s never seen or heard of before but his money is good for the family home.
Lachlan McNeill is a ruggedly handsome man that has worked hard the last few years earning his wealth. He’s now bought himself a castle, a distillery and now a wife. His life is looking almost complete but there’s a hidden sorrow within Lachlan that he’s desperate to remedy. Life in the past was very difficult for Lachlan and his family and a tragedy has left him with a guilt he’s struggling to overcome. Outwardly Lachlan looks the perfect husband but he’s so overcome with the strain from the emotions brought on by his past that it’s placing a barrier against any future happiness with his wife.
I loved this story set in the Scottish Highlands, Janice Preston described the setting perfectly and you could feel a sense of ruggedness of the land and the remoteness to the nearby city of Glasgow. Flora had two different personalities in the story, she was so vibrant as a young girl but by the time she was due to wed her father had knocked the spirit out of her. Once wed she was quite shy and reserved but her spirit from long ago was still there slowly simmering in the background.
With secrets in both Flora and Lachlan’s past can the newlyweds help each other to overcome them? Will the feud from long ago lift it’s ugly head and what is the startling find that Flora discovered?
His Convenient Highland Wedding is gorgeously romantic with a storyline that is filled with secrets, drama and charm.
The Lochmore Legacy looks set to be a fantastic, exciting series with romance firmly at the heart of the stories. I can’t wait to read each story.
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March 25, 2019Miniseries: The Lochmore Legacy
March 21, 2019
This is book 1 of the Lochmore Legacy and I'm hooked already!! What a splendid job Janice Preston did with this start of the series. So many emotions went through me while I was reading, my heart really went out to Flora and Lachlan!
Lady Flora McCrieff is forced to marry a stranger (she meets Lachlan at the altar!) because her family needs money and after a year of being ostracized by her family for creating a scandal by refusing to marry a lecherous duke, her father has had enough and forces this marriage on her.
Lachlan McNeill, a business man, feels he needs a wife with a title so that he can be part of the ton and have rich men do business with him and his whiskey distillery. Unfortunately, he didn't know that Flora was not welcome and was being ignored by the ton.
Lachlan has some secrets that he's keeping from Flora and many misunderstandings occur between them, leaving Flora hurt and exasperated that she can't seem to get through to him. All she's ever wanted was to be loved and have a family....Lachlan feels he's no good for her because he comes from a very poor childhood and has been to prison. A lot of heartache happens until Flora decides to fight back!!
Then there is the mystery of the brooch that Flora finds in a tower in her childhood home....
I received a free copy of the book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
Lady Flora McCrieff is forced to marry a stranger (she meets Lachlan at the altar!) because her family needs money and after a year of being ostracized by her family for creating a scandal by refusing to marry a lecherous duke, her father has had enough and forces this marriage on her.
Lachlan McNeill, a business man, feels he needs a wife with a title so that he can be part of the ton and have rich men do business with him and his whiskey distillery. Unfortunately, he didn't know that Flora was not welcome and was being ignored by the ton.
Lachlan has some secrets that he's keeping from Flora and many misunderstandings occur between them, leaving Flora hurt and exasperated that she can't seem to get through to him. All she's ever wanted was to be loved and have a family....Lachlan feels he's no good for her because he comes from a very poor childhood and has been to prison. A lot of heartache happens until Flora decides to fight back!!
Then there is the mystery of the brooch that Flora finds in a tower in her childhood home....
I received a free copy of the book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
February 12, 2019
Tis another buy buy book!
While I did not give it five stars for a small reason, this was a wonderful read. Had elements that were unexpected. Characters you could like and enjoy and written in a fashion that makes the reader want more. I had some frustration at times for I felt it needed a little boost in life but the overall story and the creative mind and writing of the author saved it to be a very good read. The plot of marrying to raise yourself in society while not a new one was carried out in this book in a very different manner. The heroine , was a little too soft at times but while the story unfolded she becomes stronger and saves the way you think of her. All in all because this author is so very creative and witty you will definitely enjoy this story. I was given this ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are voluntary and my own. Regards, Anna
While I did not give it five stars for a small reason, this was a wonderful read. Had elements that were unexpected. Characters you could like and enjoy and written in a fashion that makes the reader want more. I had some frustration at times for I felt it needed a little boost in life but the overall story and the creative mind and writing of the author saved it to be a very good read. The plot of marrying to raise yourself in society while not a new one was carried out in this book in a very different manner. The heroine , was a little too soft at times but while the story unfolded she becomes stronger and saves the way you think of her. All in all because this author is so very creative and witty you will definitely enjoy this story. I was given this ARC via NetGalley. All opinions expressed here are voluntary and my own. Regards, Anna
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April 2, 2019Categories
Scottish Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery & Detective Fiction, Victorian Historical Fiction
Miniseries
The Lochmore Legacy
Scottish Historical Fiction, Historical Fiction, Historical Mystery & Detective Fiction, Victorian Historical Fiction
Miniseries
The Lochmore Legacy
March 19, 2019
His Convenient Highland Wedding is a Victorian romantic mystery and book one of The Lochmore Legacy collection. A set of four books, each steps back into history as clues to the secrets are recovered. Book two is set in the Regency era, book three in Tudor times, and the final book is set in the medieval period.
The story opens with a young Flora McCrieff discovering a skeleton with a silver brooch in a forbidden castle tower.
Seven years later, Flora is about to marry a man she has never met. Lachlan McNeill, a self-made businessman, hopes to use Flora’s aristocratic connections to help him sell his new whisky. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-dpZ
The story opens with a young Flora McCrieff discovering a skeleton with a silver brooch in a forbidden castle tower.
Seven years later, Flora is about to marry a man she has never met. Lachlan McNeill, a self-made businessman, hopes to use Flora’s aristocratic connections to help him sell his new whisky. See here for full review https://wp.me/p2Eu3u-dpZ
April 15, 2019
Let's just take a second to admire the cover. Now, let's take a minute and freak out at the fact that a new Historical Romance series is here. Yeah... That's what I did when I found out about this series and book. You all know I love Historical Romance, especially Janice Preston's since she introduced me to this amazing genre with her book. Than been said, of course I was very excited about this all series because of the amazing authors that rote the books.
This book is the start of everything. It's the introduction to a brand new series connected but separated by time. In this novel we are transported to a Victorian era and I know that it's quite a new era for Janice Preston and that she got out of her comfort zone, but she did an absolutely wonderful job with this book.
In this story we follow Flora (amazing name) and Lachlan (strong name that I have no idea if I pronounce it correctly in my mind, but that I still love). These two characters are our main characters, and since we are in a historical romance novel, of course they are our lovely and passionate couple. This book is basically a "Marriage by convenience" kind of story, at least that's the beginning, but life and love are unexpected and so many fun and exciting things happen that left me needing the next page, and the next... and the next... and the next...
Set in a beautiful place, with brilliant and vivid descriptions, the author completely transport us, not only to another time, but to another place as well. The setting of this novel left me dreamy, just as much as Lachlan made me feel. I felt as if I was part of this place, part of the story, even if only as a spirit running around the castle and the land, making sure my beloved family members were doing well and happy, in love too. Sounds, weird? I don't care, I was really transported and I loved the trip.
Of course, the setting is almost nothing without equally amazingly well written characters (either we love them or not). You already know I love the main characters. I love that there was electricity, sparks, happening between them. I love that there were funny moments as well as romantic ones. I love every single interaction. I loved to learn more about them and their hearts, minds, dreams, goals and past as I read the book. I loved falling in love with Lachlan and Flora as they fell in love with each other.
So, yes... I loved the book. "Love" is the strongest word I can use at the moment. I'm still quite speechless. I loved connecting with the characters and I loved following their journey, uncovering mysteries (of life, of family, of love), surpassing obstacles and being who they are.
Do I recommend this book? That's not even a question. If you guys haven't noticed, I used the world "LOVE", that should be the answer. And I can't wait to read all the other books in the series and keep falling in love with the characters, the plot, the flow, the era and definitely learn all I can about what connects all the books and explore this series until my heart is contempt.
This book is the start of everything. It's the introduction to a brand new series connected but separated by time. In this novel we are transported to a Victorian era and I know that it's quite a new era for Janice Preston and that she got out of her comfort zone, but she did an absolutely wonderful job with this book.
In this story we follow Flora (amazing name) and Lachlan (strong name that I have no idea if I pronounce it correctly in my mind, but that I still love). These two characters are our main characters, and since we are in a historical romance novel, of course they are our lovely and passionate couple. This book is basically a "Marriage by convenience" kind of story, at least that's the beginning, but life and love are unexpected and so many fun and exciting things happen that left me needing the next page, and the next... and the next... and the next...
Set in a beautiful place, with brilliant and vivid descriptions, the author completely transport us, not only to another time, but to another place as well. The setting of this novel left me dreamy, just as much as Lachlan made me feel. I felt as if I was part of this place, part of the story, even if only as a spirit running around the castle and the land, making sure my beloved family members were doing well and happy, in love too. Sounds, weird? I don't care, I was really transported and I loved the trip.
Of course, the setting is almost nothing without equally amazingly well written characters (either we love them or not). You already know I love the main characters. I love that there was electricity, sparks, happening between them. I love that there were funny moments as well as romantic ones. I love every single interaction. I loved to learn more about them and their hearts, minds, dreams, goals and past as I read the book. I loved falling in love with Lachlan and Flora as they fell in love with each other.
So, yes... I loved the book. "Love" is the strongest word I can use at the moment. I'm still quite speechless. I loved connecting with the characters and I loved following their journey, uncovering mysteries (of life, of family, of love), surpassing obstacles and being who they are.
Do I recommend this book? That's not even a question. If you guys haven't noticed, I used the world "LOVE", that should be the answer. And I can't wait to read all the other books in the series and keep falling in love with the characters, the plot, the flow, the era and definitely learn all I can about what connects all the books and explore this series until my heart is contempt.
May 9, 2019
WHATI LIKED:-
The novel was well written with some nice background historical info about the plight of Victorian Tenants in the 1840's and a little insight into transportation. The author clearly knows her stuff and puts it across without thinking you are having a history lesson.
It was a typical plot with likable characters trying hard to make each other happy and although there was inclusion of sex, it was not gratuitous. The dog bandit and little Davy also made me smile.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE:-
The prologue mentions a skeleton in the tower of her family home. It should have been properly tied up and explained in the last chapter or the epilogue, but it was not. You understand it has something to do with the origins of the feud between the McCrieffs and the Lochmores but there is no resolution. Who was it and why was it there? From other reviews I understand that it may be part of a wider story shared by four others authors but the matter should served to irritate me. Nothing irritates me more than reading a novel where an important element has no resolution. Hence only 3 stars from me.
The novel was well written with some nice background historical info about the plight of Victorian Tenants in the 1840's and a little insight into transportation. The author clearly knows her stuff and puts it across without thinking you are having a history lesson.
It was a typical plot with likable characters trying hard to make each other happy and although there was inclusion of sex, it was not gratuitous. The dog bandit and little Davy also made me smile.
WHAT I DID NOT LIKE:-
The prologue mentions a skeleton in the tower of her family home. It should have been properly tied up and explained in the last chapter or the epilogue, but it was not. You understand it has something to do with the origins of the feud between the McCrieffs and the Lochmores but there is no resolution. Who was it and why was it there? From other reviews I understand that it may be part of a wider story shared by four others authors but the matter should served to irritate me. Nothing irritates me more than reading a novel where an important element has no resolution. Hence only 3 stars from me.
July 12, 2019
Marriage-of-convenience plots are my favorite, but His Convenient Highland Wedding was a huuuuuuge bummer. Throughout the book, there's an unchallenged buy-in to the idea that women who have sex with someone other than their lawful husband (who they also love!) are "impure."
The heroine tells the hero that her former fiancé almost raped her. His response is to say that it's okay because "I know you remained pure." OKAY.
Hero's long-lost sister turns up working as a prostitute. Firstly, he's glad that she was forced into that life by poverty and didn't chose it willingly. Yikes. Secondly, the heroine has a hard time treating this sister as a human being because...dirty whore. Double yikes.
Other than that? The rest of the plot is boring and just a lot of Man Feels that could have been resolved if anybody here had decided to talk about something besides women's sexual purity.
The heroine tells the hero that her former fiancé almost raped her. His response is to say that it's okay because "I know you remained pure." OKAY.
Hero's long-lost sister turns up working as a prostitute. Firstly, he's glad that she was forced into that life by poverty and didn't chose it willingly. Yikes. Secondly, the heroine has a hard time treating this sister as a human being because...dirty whore. Double yikes.
Other than that? The rest of the plot is boring and just a lot of Man Feels that could have been resolved if anybody here had decided to talk about something besides women's sexual purity.
April 4, 2019
Overall, this story of Flora and Lachlan was very good and captivating. But I gave it 4 stars rather than 5 because the author neglected to solve the mystery of the skeleton in the tower, the empty tomb and Flora’s brooch. Too many loose ends with these details and it just bugs me that the author leaves these details of the story just hanging.
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