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Highland Magic #3
Highland Stranger
His heart was made of ice...
Born a nameless bastard into the Berserker horde, Finn is the measure of strength, ferocity, and brutality at the Temple of Freya. Sent to the Highlands bent on revenge and murder, he stumbles on an infant deserted in the snow. What he chooses next may seal his fate.
Her life was cold and empty...
Rhona McEwan has lost everything. Her husband, her child, and soon she fears she must relinquish her dignity in order to survive the bitter Highland winter. When the most fearsome, mysterious, and breathtaking man seeks the help she can give to the child in his arms, she's unable to turn them away. Even though she's not certain he's entirely human.
Three of the world's Unwanted...
On a snowy Solstice night during the magical Yuletide season, their need for each other may alter their destines forever.
In the third installment of the best-selling Highland Historical Series, Kerrigan Byrne weaves a tale of blood and vengeance, of love, redemption, and the bonds that make a family.
Born a nameless bastard into the Berserker horde, Finn is the measure of strength, ferocity, and brutality at the Temple of Freya. Sent to the Highlands bent on revenge and murder, he stumbles on an infant deserted in the snow. What he chooses next may seal his fate.
Her life was cold and empty...
Rhona McEwan has lost everything. Her husband, her child, and soon she fears she must relinquish her dignity in order to survive the bitter Highland winter. When the most fearsome, mysterious, and breathtaking man seeks the help she can give to the child in his arms, she's unable to turn them away. Even though she's not certain he's entirely human.
Three of the world's Unwanted...
On a snowy Solstice night during the magical Yuletide season, their need for each other may alter their destines forever.
In the third installment of the best-selling Highland Historical Series, Kerrigan Byrne weaves a tale of blood and vengeance, of love, redemption, and the bonds that make a family.
152 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2012
385 people are currently reading
1283 people want to read
About the author
Kerrigan Byrne
71 books5,027 followersIf you're anything like me, the best night is one spent with a brawny highlander, a mysterious werewolf, a conflicted vampire, or a hot-headed Irishman. My stories span the spectrum of romantic fiction from historical, to paranormal, to romantic suspense. But I can always promise my readers one thing: memorable and sexy Celtic heroes who are guaranteed to heat your blood before they steal your heart. Lose yourself in the enchanted Celtic Isles, you never know who, or what, will find you...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
September 24, 2025
What an incredible story!!!
My emotions were taken on a ride with this book. Be prepared for the ride you will go on in this novella
My emotions were taken on a ride with this book. Be prepared for the ride you will go on in this novella
February 21, 2014
With the first two novellas of this trilogy firmly on my list of "Pleasant Surprise Reads", I must admit I wasn't sure about this one. The hero finds an abandoned baby in the snow and our heroine's a wet nurse? Since I prefer my romances to be kid-free, I was worried this wouldn't be my cuppa.
But once again Ms. Byrne reeled me in. Finn is super sexy of course but it was Rhona who blew me away. This woman has been through some stuff. But she is a survivor; the girl does what she has to in order to stay alive.
Our two MC's form an arrangement, which could be seen as morally wrong, but I think it to be quite acceptable considering the time period. Even notwithstanding the era it takes place, if you're a fan of a certain Julia Roberts movie, you can't say Finn's actions are any worse than what you find there. Rhona is definitely my favorite heroine of this series, and I'm pretty sure Finn is my favorite hero. His background is a bit different than that of the previous heroes and IMO he's a wee bit more badass. ☺
Final Thoughts:
I love this series and I'm putting Unwanted on my favorites shelf. Ms. Byrne writes PNR I like to read--the heroes are hot alpha males, but more importantly they're honorable, and the heroines are characters I can identify with on some level and respect. The supernatural world is hidden just under the surface of the everyday world, waiting to be discovered, dangers and all. She writes with a poetic hand--but not cloyingly so--and her dialogue flows naturally.
Oh yeah, and it's hawt.
I'll be checking out her Banshee series, and crossing my fingers that this trilogy might someday become a prequel to a contemporary PNR series featuring some modern day berserkers from the MacLauchlan line.
But once again Ms. Byrne reeled me in. Finn is super sexy of course but it was Rhona who blew me away. This woman has been through some stuff. But she is a survivor; the girl does what she has to in order to stay alive.
Our two MC's form an arrangement, which could be seen as morally wrong, but I think it to be quite acceptable considering the time period. Even notwithstanding the era it takes place, if you're a fan of a certain Julia Roberts movie, you can't say Finn's actions are any worse than what you find there. Rhona is definitely my favorite heroine of this series, and I'm pretty sure Finn is my favorite hero. His background is a bit different than that of the previous heroes and IMO he's a wee bit more badass. ☺
Final Thoughts:
I love this series and I'm putting Unwanted on my favorites shelf. Ms. Byrne writes PNR I like to read--the heroes are hot alpha males, but more importantly they're honorable, and the heroines are characters I can identify with on some level and respect. The supernatural world is hidden just under the surface of the everyday world, waiting to be discovered, dangers and all. She writes with a poetic hand--but not cloyingly so--and her dialogue flows naturally.
Oh yeah, and it's hawt.
I'll be checking out her Banshee series, and crossing my fingers that this trilogy might someday become a prequel to a contemporary PNR series featuring some modern day berserkers from the MacLauchlan line.
October 11, 2015
The third in the series, and I think the best. It had much more story to it. The characters had more development. The heroine and hero both have a hard history. Although the heroine's was really harsh. I would advise reading the previous books in the series before this one. While it could be read as a standalone, it would make much more sense if you had the other stories. Plus it is fun to see the previous couples again!
This book had some history and reality that was hard to hear but it made the connection sweeter. There was a little angst, not much but a moment or two of it, and some drama and action. There is also a very sweet little baby that the hero saves from freezing to death.
These are short easy reads and currently in KU. No OW/OM in any of them.
Safety Gang
This book had some history and reality that was hard to hear but it made the connection sweeter. There was a little angst, not much but a moment or two of it, and some drama and action. There is also a very sweet little baby that the hero saves from freezing to death.
These are short easy reads and currently in KU. No OW/OM in any of them.
Safety Gang
March 24, 2015
Unwanted has definitely become my favorite in this series because it's just a really sweet story. It's hard not to like a guy who rescues a baby and woman from different but similar horrible fates. The family element in this book was just fantastic! I loved seeing all of the brothers come together with their mates and stand against their enemies. It was pretty neat to read about their interactions during the holidays and building of this new life.
What I love about these stories is the fact that the whole "mate" thing is in play but it's not instant love. These guys find someone they're actually compatible with, someone that completes them so that eventually they can build a life together. That is why this series really works for me. There isn't any instant love, of course there's instant attraction but who's not gonna wanna hook up with a sexy guy? I also enjoy the fact these ladies come from all walks of life, none of them are perfect or clones of each other. Each guy likes a different type of woman.
I'd definitely recommend this series, because I will be reading Byrne's next series as well. I think it's worth the time to read and enjoy, it is a satisfying love story with some action an steamy sex.
What I love about these stories is the fact that the whole "mate" thing is in play but it's not instant love. These guys find someone they're actually compatible with, someone that completes them so that eventually they can build a life together. That is why this series really works for me. There isn't any instant love, of course there's instant attraction but who's not gonna wanna hook up with a sexy guy? I also enjoy the fact these ladies come from all walks of life, none of them are perfect or clones of each other. Each guy likes a different type of woman.
I'd definitely recommend this series, because I will be reading Byrne's next series as well. I think it's worth the time to read and enjoy, it is a satisfying love story with some action an steamy sex.
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March 21, 2013
My review contains spoilers and they're are mostly my thoughts as I went with the book...
Just finished Unwanted and I’m already going on a withdrawal of sexy Highlander Berserkers! Book 3 of Highland Historical was excellent in one word. It had everything, even as a novella; love, passion, loyalty and a thrilling story with three sexy berserkers that got me hooked till the end. Yet again, Kerrigan delivers!
I was wondering at the end of book 2 that whose story it’ll be. There weren’t really any indicator. So as we meet Finn, a Norseman and a berserker from the temple of Freya, I was immediately confused. Finn is big, strong, a man of very little words which initially makes him look like a cold individual. But as I read on his upbringing, I understood why. Finn’s also a bastard. He has no place in the temple where he has spent almost all his life since his mother abandoned him very young. He only knew that his father discarded his mother after he was born. The bastard even named him before it. His life in the temple just made me sad. My heart went out for that little boy who never knew love or kinship since he had no banner, neither a surname/clan name. Now, he’s on a mission to find the two Gael berserkers with tainted bloodline and wipe them off the face of the earth; all because he was made to believe by the Elder, Magnum that this is Freya’s wish. Finn will do that, just for an identity and a little acceptance.
As Finn gets closer to the MacLauchlan lands, his sensitive hearing picks up a baby’s cry in the middle of a violent snowstorm. He finds the baby, abandoned and going blue. I was laughing, reading Finn’s reaction to this screeching little bundle, since he’s never really held or known a baby in his life. Upon arriving at Strathlauchlan, he’s seeks out help from the tavern and is led to a stable........ part stable, part shabby dwelling of our heroine, Rhona. Oh, poor honey. She’s poor and has nothing. She’s the nursemaid and from time to time looks after newborns and such but when her necessity is over, she’s back to square one; to nothing. Rhona’s life story is nothing like the other two heroines we’ve read so far. She’s been in a short, loveless marriage until her husband died. The story afterward is excruciatingly painful. She has been raped by some soldiers who offered her help to get to her mother after becoming a widow. Then she had a baby, but couldn’t get a job anywhere because people knew of her condition and probable reason behind it. I felt so sad for her, can’t explain. So far, Rhona has been a brave little thing. A survivor. But even survivors have their limits. Right now, Rhona has almost no means to go on in this bitter winter, unless she’s given the job of taking care of one of the Mistresses of the Laird’s keep. Apparently, Evelyn is pregnant and Rhona is summoned by her. As Rhona is thinking about all her misfortunes, someone knocks at her door and she hears the crying of a baby. When she opens the door, there is this huge man, holding a screeching baby, asking her to make it stop!
(don’t ask, I was still laughing at Finn’s wording where babies are concerned. lol)
Finn, who’s not yet mated and doesn’t even dream of it (reasons were revealed later) is instantly attracted to Rhona. This goes beyond simple lust as he finds out soon enough. Their interactions afterwards and watching Rhona nurse the baby doesn’t help the matter. Finn wants her, and he wants her now. Then, even though Fin doesn’t say much about himself, Rhona ends up confiding in him about the unfairness and cruelties that life bestowed on her. Finn is enraged on her behalf but he’s still in control, though barely. This thing turns to that and after an incident with a drunken woodcutter who wanted more than Rhona could give him, Finn strikes a bargain with Rhona.
Now, Rhona is attracted to Finn. I mean who won’t be, he’s the epitome of Godly beauty and perfection; big, hard body with white blonde hair and gorgeous green eyes. And Rhona can’t believe what she’s hearing, that this man wants her. She’s not happy with the bargain (and what this bargain actually looks like), but she’s helpless. Their night of passion is a revelation of the deepest kind to both. Finn knows that something has changed within him irrevocably. And Rhona, for the first time in her life, realizes that lovemaking doesn’t have to be a shameful, miserable experience.
I also loved their interaction where the baby was concerned and the naming process of Iain (a lovely name!). But Rhona still doesn’t know why Finn is really here, and what business he has with the MacLauchlans. She’s vulnerable, and a little hurt that Finn will leave her soon. I felt for her. Rhona has never known an ounce of security and love in her life, and so, after one night of something so elusive made her think of the unthinkable. Yet, Finn doesn’t leave. Moreover, he’s determined to accompany her to the Laird’s keep. One look at Rhona’s hole-riddled footwear and Finn is carrying her, again, in his arms to the keep.
(let me sigh a little bit here... *sigh*)
The main revelation came when they’re in the keep and the brothers sense another berserker in the castle. Whoa, they fight like mad beasts, until Roderick notices the resemblance and then, so does Connor. It took me totally by surprise. Finn can’t believe what he’s hearing either, until he sees the picture of the previous Laird. It’s confirmed in a few that Finn, is indeed, a Maclaughlan.
We also get to see Lindsay and a very pregnant Evelyn and some funny, heartwarming banter between the SILs. I believe, Evelyn already knew who Finn is and who Rhona will be to their family in the future, so she warmly welcomes Rhona. Not that Lindsay didn’t but I just had the feeling coming from Evelyn because of her special ability. It made me sooo happy to see the two big brutes doting of their wives *sigh*.
(WHERE CAN I GET ONE FOR MYSELF??? GRR!)
But the best thing was yet to come, and it was one of the hottest and most intense scene I’ve read in a while; where Finn finally decides that it’s no use to fight his attraction and longing for Rhona and claim her as his mate. WOW but I can’t explain in words. It was just........ it was....... *gets distracted while remembering that scene... sigh*
The climax and the ending were heartbreaking and then, beautiful. Again, I ended up wishing for a few more chapters. Already mentioned that I’m going through an withdrawal. *pouts* Peeps, just pick this series up. It was worth it. I’ve enjoyed Unwanted and the whole series so much that I’m thinking of stalking Kerrigan for the next installment (if any... I sure hope so!). 4.5 stars, gladly!
Just finished Unwanted and I’m already going on a withdrawal of sexy Highlander Berserkers! Book 3 of Highland Historical was excellent in one word. It had everything, even as a novella; love, passion, loyalty and a thrilling story with three sexy berserkers that got me hooked till the end. Yet again, Kerrigan delivers!
I was wondering at the end of book 2 that whose story it’ll be. There weren’t really any indicator. So as we meet Finn, a Norseman and a berserker from the temple of Freya, I was immediately confused. Finn is big, strong, a man of very little words which initially makes him look like a cold individual. But as I read on his upbringing, I understood why. Finn’s also a bastard. He has no place in the temple where he has spent almost all his life since his mother abandoned him very young. He only knew that his father discarded his mother after he was born. The bastard even named him before it. His life in the temple just made me sad. My heart went out for that little boy who never knew love or kinship since he had no banner, neither a surname/clan name. Now, he’s on a mission to find the two Gael berserkers with tainted bloodline and wipe them off the face of the earth; all because he was made to believe by the Elder, Magnum that this is Freya’s wish. Finn will do that, just for an identity and a little acceptance.
As Finn gets closer to the MacLauchlan lands, his sensitive hearing picks up a baby’s cry in the middle of a violent snowstorm. He finds the baby, abandoned and going blue. I was laughing, reading Finn’s reaction to this screeching little bundle, since he’s never really held or known a baby in his life. Upon arriving at Strathlauchlan, he’s seeks out help from the tavern and is led to a stable........ part stable, part shabby dwelling of our heroine, Rhona. Oh, poor honey. She’s poor and has nothing. She’s the nursemaid and from time to time looks after newborns and such but when her necessity is over, she’s back to square one; to nothing. Rhona’s life story is nothing like the other two heroines we’ve read so far. She’s been in a short, loveless marriage until her husband died. The story afterward is excruciatingly painful. She has been raped by some soldiers who offered her help to get to her mother after becoming a widow. Then she had a baby, but couldn’t get a job anywhere because people knew of her condition and probable reason behind it. I felt so sad for her, can’t explain. So far, Rhona has been a brave little thing. A survivor. But even survivors have their limits. Right now, Rhona has almost no means to go on in this bitter winter, unless she’s given the job of taking care of one of the Mistresses of the Laird’s keep. Apparently, Evelyn is pregnant and Rhona is summoned by her. As Rhona is thinking about all her misfortunes, someone knocks at her door and she hears the crying of a baby. When she opens the door, there is this huge man, holding a screeching baby, asking her to make it stop!
(don’t ask, I was still laughing at Finn’s wording where babies are concerned. lol)
Finn, who’s not yet mated and doesn’t even dream of it (reasons were revealed later) is instantly attracted to Rhona. This goes beyond simple lust as he finds out soon enough. Their interactions afterwards and watching Rhona nurse the baby doesn’t help the matter. Finn wants her, and he wants her now. Then, even though Fin doesn’t say much about himself, Rhona ends up confiding in him about the unfairness and cruelties that life bestowed on her. Finn is enraged on her behalf but he’s still in control, though barely. This thing turns to that and after an incident with a drunken woodcutter who wanted more than Rhona could give him, Finn strikes a bargain with Rhona.
Now, Rhona is attracted to Finn. I mean who won’t be, he’s the epitome of Godly beauty and perfection; big, hard body with white blonde hair and gorgeous green eyes. And Rhona can’t believe what she’s hearing, that this man wants her. She’s not happy with the bargain (and what this bargain actually looks like), but she’s helpless. Their night of passion is a revelation of the deepest kind to both. Finn knows that something has changed within him irrevocably. And Rhona, for the first time in her life, realizes that lovemaking doesn’t have to be a shameful, miserable experience.
I also loved their interaction where the baby was concerned and the naming process of Iain (a lovely name!). But Rhona still doesn’t know why Finn is really here, and what business he has with the MacLauchlans. She’s vulnerable, and a little hurt that Finn will leave her soon. I felt for her. Rhona has never known an ounce of security and love in her life, and so, after one night of something so elusive made her think of the unthinkable. Yet, Finn doesn’t leave. Moreover, he’s determined to accompany her to the Laird’s keep. One look at Rhona’s hole-riddled footwear and Finn is carrying her, again, in his arms to the keep.
(let me sigh a little bit here... *sigh*)
The main revelation came when they’re in the keep and the brothers sense another berserker in the castle. Whoa, they fight like mad beasts, until Roderick notices the resemblance and then, so does Connor. It took me totally by surprise. Finn can’t believe what he’s hearing either, until he sees the picture of the previous Laird. It’s confirmed in a few that Finn, is indeed, a Maclaughlan.
We also get to see Lindsay and a very pregnant Evelyn and some funny, heartwarming banter between the SILs. I believe, Evelyn already knew who Finn is and who Rhona will be to their family in the future, so she warmly welcomes Rhona. Not that Lindsay didn’t but I just had the feeling coming from Evelyn because of her special ability. It made me sooo happy to see the two big brutes doting of their wives *sigh*.
(WHERE CAN I GET ONE FOR MYSELF??? GRR!)
But the best thing was yet to come, and it was one of the hottest and most intense scene I’ve read in a while; where Finn finally decides that it’s no use to fight his attraction and longing for Rhona and claim her as his mate. WOW but I can’t explain in words. It was just........ it was....... *gets distracted while remembering that scene... sigh*
The climax and the ending were heartbreaking and then, beautiful. Again, I ended up wishing for a few more chapters. Already mentioned that I’m going through an withdrawal. *pouts* Peeps, just pick this series up. It was worth it. I’ve enjoyed Unwanted and the whole series so much that I’m thinking of stalking Kerrigan for the next installment (if any... I sure hope so!). 4.5 stars, gladly!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 26, 2012
Ok...this book was offered free on Amazon and I thought, why not, it sounds interesting.
Unwanted blew my sock off!!!
I had to go back and buy the first two books!!! I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good Highlander/paranormal romance book.
Unwanted blew my sock off!!!
I had to go back and buy the first two books!!! I highly recommend this story to anyone who enjoys a good Highlander/paranormal romance book.
February 28, 2017
4.5 stars. Another satisfying short read. I love that it's complete and you're not left feeling that there should be more explanation for this or that. Kerrigan Byrne is super talented in being able to do that kind of magic with these gems. I think Unwanted is the best of the three MacLauchlans.
Want to read
March 22, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (3/22/2020)! 🎁
May 8, 2018
Wow. I love that each book in the series is not only longer than the one that precedes it, but also different considering the elements each has in common. This book more than the others tugged on my heartstrings and emotions. You wouldn't think you'd be able to experience so much in such a short book, but Kerrigan Byrne is something else; She's such a talented writer! You may have to suspend some belief in reality, but the reading experience and the story itself is totally worth it!
August 15, 2024
I'm logging all the books I read in the manic episode(s) I had in the final weeks leading up to the bar so there will be no information pertaining to the content of these books. Frankly, I don't even remember what happened in them. They'll all get three stars and you'll pretend that you didn't see this.
April 19, 2023
Of the three novellas I’ve read so far in this series, Highland Stranger (fka Unwanted) is my favorite. The stories build on each other a bit, so I do recommend reading the two before this, though. Highland Stranger is set at the winter solstice then Yuletide and has a ‘family’ theme, so it’s great if you’re looking for a holiday read. Or even just a cozy wintery read.
Author: Kerrigan Byrne
Series: Highland Magic #3 (fka the Highland Historicals series. You may also see this listed as part of the MacLauchlans trilogy. I know it’s confusing!)
Read Date: December 1, 2021
Genre: paranormal historical romance
Setting: the Scottish Highlands, December, 1411 (medieval era)
Hero: Finn, a Northman, berserker, white-gold hair (I pictured his looks similar to Geralt in The Witcher)
Heroine: Rhona McEwan, widowed, red-haired, full-figured, wet nurse
Tropes: found family, holiday romance, fated mates, snow,
Format: Audible audiobook (The Complete Highland Magic Collection), narrated by Derek Perkins
Length: Novella—151 pages
Sexual Content:
Steam Level: 🔥🔥🔥 (3 out of 5), High Steam for a 150-page novella
Content Warnings:
Author: Kerrigan Byrne
Series: Highland Magic #3 (fka the Highland Historicals series. You may also see this listed as part of the MacLauchlans trilogy. I know it’s confusing!)
Read Date: December 1, 2021
Genre: paranormal historical romance
Setting: the Scottish Highlands, December, 1411 (medieval era)
Hero: Finn, a Northman, berserker, white-gold hair (I pictured his looks similar to Geralt in The Witcher)
Heroine: Rhona McEwan, widowed, red-haired, full-figured, wet nurse
Tropes: found family, holiday romance, fated mates, snow,
Format: Audible audiobook (The Complete Highland Magic Collection), narrated by Derek Perkins
Length: Novella—151 pages
Sexual Content:
Steam Level: 🔥🔥🔥 (3 out of 5), High Steam for a 150-page novella
Content Warnings:
December 3, 2012
Review originally posted at A Date with a Book .
Again, this was another great book in the series. I chose to read this book as I have read books one and two in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them. Check out my reviews for Unspoken and Unwilling. At this point, I am hooked and eagerly anticipate the next release. I love how the author has created such large creatures of men or at times can be considered beasts, but when they find their mate are just big teddy bears.
I instantly fell in love with Finn as he arrived at Rhona’s with the little infant. I loved that even though he was “on a mission” he took the time to rescue the infant who had been left in the snow and found someone that could care for the infant. I also liked the character of Rhona. While a little bit vulnerable or appearing to be, she was tough and protective of what she had and what she was and in turn showing her little bit of independence.
These books can be read as a stand alone, but to understand the Berserker element they should be read in order. Now having finished book three, I am really intrigued with the paranormal element of the Berserker. I can’t wait to learn more in the future.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance, especially with Highlander and Celtic heritage.
Again, this was another great book in the series. I chose to read this book as I have read books one and two in this series and thoroughly enjoyed them. Check out my reviews for Unspoken and Unwilling. At this point, I am hooked and eagerly anticipate the next release. I love how the author has created such large creatures of men or at times can be considered beasts, but when they find their mate are just big teddy bears.
I instantly fell in love with Finn as he arrived at Rhona’s with the little infant. I loved that even though he was “on a mission” he took the time to rescue the infant who had been left in the snow and found someone that could care for the infant. I also liked the character of Rhona. While a little bit vulnerable or appearing to be, she was tough and protective of what she had and what she was and in turn showing her little bit of independence.
These books can be read as a stand alone, but to understand the Berserker element they should be read in order. Now having finished book three, I am really intrigued with the paranormal element of the Berserker. I can’t wait to learn more in the future.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves historical romance, especially with Highlander and Celtic heritage.
March 15, 2019
4 1/2 - 5 stars
This was my favourite of the trilogy and one I know I'll read again. Rhona endured many hardships and after so much cruelty and loss, this was a heroine I wanted to see treated kindly and blessed with a well-deserved HEA.
Finn most certainly delivered. In fact, I'd say both of them were given a new lease on life upon discovering and accepting each other. The story pulled me right in and I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop and grow. I appreciated Finn's protectiveness, the way he listened and how he introduced this often abused and unfortunate woman to the pleasures of intimacy with such awareness and sensuality. He wanted her pleasure, to truly share in those moments with her and not just take from her. It was clear that they were destined to be mates and I believed in the love they'd found.
I also liked the action and descriptions with regards to the Berserkers and could see certain scenes quite vividly in my mind. Well done!
I'm looking forward to reading Ms. Byrne's McKay Banshee series in future.
This was my favourite of the trilogy and one I know I'll read again. Rhona endured many hardships and after so much cruelty and loss, this was a heroine I wanted to see treated kindly and blessed with a well-deserved HEA.
Finn most certainly delivered. In fact, I'd say both of them were given a new lease on life upon discovering and accepting each other. The story pulled me right in and I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop and grow. I appreciated Finn's protectiveness, the way he listened and how he introduced this often abused and unfortunate woman to the pleasures of intimacy with such awareness and sensuality. He wanted her pleasure, to truly share in those moments with her and not just take from her. It was clear that they were destined to be mates and I believed in the love they'd found.
I also liked the action and descriptions with regards to the Berserkers and could see certain scenes quite vividly in my mind. Well done!
I'm looking forward to reading Ms. Byrne's McKay Banshee series in future.
October 28, 2012
This series just keeps getting better, once again I was captured by the thrilling story. Just who was this Finn ? and how did his story connect to the previous books All was revealed, and I was surprised. Rhona was a wonderfull women, with a big heart, just waiting for the right man. Both had, had to endure tremendous hardship and cruelty they were such a deserving pair to find happiness at last. This story had me tearing up once or twice, it really stirred my emotions.
I hope the series continues. I so want to read more from this author.
I hope the series continues. I so want to read more from this author.
October 28, 2012
This book deserves 6 stars at least, in my opinion. From start to finish I was completely hooked and unable to put the book down. I adored Finn and Rhona and the story that unfolded was by far my favorite in the series.
Kerrigan is a very talented author that weaves a story that you can't help but be a part of and absolutely love. She creates a world that is so incredible that you don't want to leave. I am so glad that I have found her work and if you haven't read any of her books yet, I definitely recommend that you start. You will be so glad that you did, I know that I am.
Kerrigan is a very talented author that weaves a story that you can't help but be a part of and absolutely love. She creates a world that is so incredible that you don't want to leave. I am so glad that I have found her work and if you haven't read any of her books yet, I definitely recommend that you start. You will be so glad that you did, I know that I am.
January 16, 2016
Amazing. I loved the two first installments of the MacLauchlan series but this one was even better. Two lonely characters, two lost souls coming together ( no pun intended)...
no sense spoiling the story. If you like erotica, read it. If you like heart wrenching romances, read it. If you like paranormal and historical romances, read it. But first, read unspoken and unwilling ;)
no sense spoiling the story. If you like erotica, read it. If you like heart wrenching romances, read it. If you like paranormal and historical romances, read it. But first, read unspoken and unwilling ;)
August 15, 2014
I absolutely love this book!!! The others were good but this was so great!!
No words!! I'm having difficulties trying to come up with a proper review for this, but i can't seem to. Loved it!! That's all that matters.
HAPPY READING!!! :D
No words!! I'm having difficulties trying to come up with a proper review for this, but i can't seem to. Loved it!! That's all that matters.
HAPPY READING!!! :D
April 11, 2017
Hmm, this pairing was balanced but I never really felt interested in either one. Some of this is due to the shortness of the story and some due to their personalities. I liked it as much as I did due to the presence of characters from the previous novels.
February 19, 2013
It was okay. Nothing too surprising but a fun read for a lazy afternoon.
May 22, 2017
Good wrap up to the series - I was disappointed it wasn't longer!
May 3, 2022
just really not in to the "found child/baby" or "we are an instant family" trope. Not my jam.
June 2, 2022
It was OK. A little boring and typical.
March 5, 2016
I cannot deny the truth in this statement especially when it comes to book covers. I often decide whether I should pick the book and read its synopsis by judging the cover. Though I learned my lesson with R.L. Mathewson's Perfection, I still fall into the trap of the covers. Guys who are shredded, wearing kilts, with big heavy swords (heh), all the things that make me drool - I will definitely check that one out while wiping le drool (pfft. Shallow. but covers that can suffuse me with a sense of calm and love are not ignored). This book was a reminder not to judge the cover. Where am I going with this?
Well you see after being submerged to PNR these past few days, I decided to switch to historical again by reading If the Viscount Falls which is a bland choice. I love Sabrina Jeffries but something about the characters does not sit well with me. After that failed foray into the world of HR I venture into the world of PNR again. I decided to go to my TBR list, select the one PNR I read and check the 'readers also enjoy' section. I checked the stars and found Unwilling and Unwanted by Kerrigan Byrne. I read the synopsis and found it interesting. I stared at the name. I wonder if why it is so familiar. I believe I haven't read any of her PNR yet. But why the familiarity? I came up with a reason that I always saw her name on the recs but ignored it because of the cover. The font of the book cover did not appeal to me so I chose to ignore it. (yes I know who in their right minds will be affected by a font of the book cover? Apparently I have some loose screws). But I stared at the name again because there is a niggling feeling. Byrne Kerrigan. Kerigan Byrne.
Byrne Kerrigan. Who are you? Why so familiar? (In my mind, I said that with Sherlock's voice)
I checked her goodreads profile. And shit. Her story is one of the best read I have this year. Holy jesus joseph and mary! The Highwayman and The Hunter!!! I was impressed by her writing in the aforementioned books. She has one of the best moving prologues ever! I immediately read the third book (because the synopsis is to my liking) after realizing author is Kerrigan Byrne.
During the first few pages, I was really impressed how the author writes (bias? nah). I was reading but I was easily distracted by the book cover.
I keep remembering Dean's nipples saying Hi. Dean's erect nipples. HAHAHAHAHA.
Back to the story, it is a bit fast paced but considering that it is a short novel - novella - that is forgivable and the author made sure that to keep it simple, succinct, balanced with just enough smut, feelings, mystery and revelations. She also has a good way of describing the setting of the book and the actions made by the characters which is easy for my imagination. My only problem is it is short. Good things must come to an end huh?
Short (in my dictionary) also means instalust but it works for me because it is PNR. It also works because these are two souls who are wanting, no - NEEDING love, and I thank gods that they found each other. Maybe the resonating loneliness in each others soul was the reason why they fit together. It may not be a good basis for love since there is a saying that: Love when you are ready not when you are lonely but I view what happened as a good start (but in real life one night stand does not denote undying love, maybe one in a million in real life but again this story is PNR so I accept that feelings were made the moment they met). The characters Finn and Rhona were written well. Again novella so fast paced - especially in Rhona recounting her past but all is well. I love this line:
"What about next time, when you've moved on and no one is here to protect me"because somehow it tells you a lot about her fears, feelings, yearnings. I simply love this book. Oh and I understand it even if I did not read the first two (such is my way - not reading in order).
For the song, I can only think: THANK GOD I FOUND YOU and I think there are a lot of books that will forever remind me of that song.
Five stars because it is a good novella and because it is Kerrigan Byrne.
Now let me read the first and second book.
March 23, 2020
The first book I read in this series so I came in a bit blind.
The good:
- The writing is nice, good plot pacing
- Realistic nursing situation! I've read a few where the woman feeds the baby goats milk and while that's ... sort of fine.... it's putting the baby at risk. Love this one and it's obvious the author knows exactly what she's talking about. I almost relactated reading it XD if I had still been nursing I would probably have leaked LOL
- The hero and heroine are both so likeable and I was so happy they had each other
The bad:
- it's too short, the ending felt a bit rushed since she was unconscious and then woke up and then it ends. Meh.
The good:
- The writing is nice, good plot pacing
- Realistic nursing situation! I've read a few where the woman feeds the baby goats milk and while that's ... sort of fine.... it's putting the baby at risk. Love this one and it's obvious the author knows exactly what she's talking about. I almost relactated reading it XD if I had still been nursing I would probably have leaked LOL
- The hero and heroine are both so likeable and I was so happy they had each other
The bad:
- it's too short, the ending felt a bit rushed since she was unconscious and then woke up and then it ends. Meh.
August 12, 2017
Best of the three. This had all the characters from the first two books with a special surprise in this third installment. Scottish Highlander/berserkers, strong female leads, romance, mythology, violence, mild to moderate sexy times all wrapped in three short books. If you love Irish and Scottish themed books you will not be disappointed with these quick way reads.
No cliffhanger, HEA, no epilogue, no ow/on, good characters.
No cliffhanger, HEA, no epilogue, no ow/on, good characters.
May 18, 2024
Highland Stranger. short, part of complete highland magic collection.
December 26, 2020
My favorite in this series yet!
March 11, 2022
I listened to the audiobook and the narrator did a good job. I enjoyed the short story and the characters.
January 23, 2024
There's a child and I hate children 🙄
October 19, 2012
Kerrigan Byrne does it again! She weaves a delicious and intriguing tale of a fierce berserker who has always remained on the outside and a lonely widow whose life has never been easy. From the first couple of pages I was drawn into the story, starting with Finn about to go into a berserker rage and leap into a fight only to find that it’s a wee baby making all that mighty noise. Driven by a compassion that he never knew he had, he grabs the baby and makes for the nearby village not knowing that one act changed his fate forever.
So it’s no secret that I love me a berserker and that I snap up just about anything I can find that features these fierce warriors. There is just something about a warrior that is so fierce and can fly into a rage and slaughter entire armies but yet be so gentle with his mate as if she is the most cherished thing he has ever come across. Finn is no different. All of his life he has been unwanted, the bastard son of some unknown berserker, even his own clan treats him worse than the dogs they make him eat with. Always he has longed for a family or even a name, something to tell him who he is or where he came from. When he meets Rhona he finds a measure of calm within his raging storm. His attraction is as fierce as he is and he can’t help himself when he propositions her for one night, one night he can allow himself before he walks to his very doom because there is little chance of his walking away from a fight with two mated berserkers. Such is his life as soon as he finds something he wants to keep, he knows it’s all going to be taken away. His loneliness is so tangible that it leaves an ache in your heart. Finn is such a strong character that it saddens you to feel his despair. Finn will capture your heart and leave you breathless!
Rhona is much like Finn and yet so different. She is soft where he is hard, a bleeding heart especially when it comes to children. Having lost her own child she yearns for what she has lost. She has a fierce protective streak which by the end of the night transfers to Finn. In Finn she finds what she has always lacked a handsome warrior that makes her feel treasured. Her life has been a series of disappointments going from bad to worse, and now she is at the very edge of desperation. Her very survival is becoming harder and harder, until a strange man shows up at her door during a raging storm. In her one night with Finn she discovers what her body was made to feel but never did. She also discovers a depth of emotion that she didn’t know was possible especially only having known the warrior for such a short period. You will love Rhona as much as you love Finn. She protects the foundling baby as if it was her own. When she is struggling with herself you are rooting for her to break through, knowing what she has in store for her on the other side. After their night together even though she knows it is futile she takes Finn into her heart as easily as she took him into her body, but she doesn’t know that his life is basically forfeit.
K. Byrne just has this way of writing that is part lyrical, part humor and all passionate and it’s a combination I cannot resist. And why should I resist? When it’s that good there is no reason to say no, just say yes! You quickly get immersed into this story of two memorable easy to love characters. This is a love story that will warm your heart and will keep you entertained with its passion and epic battles.
Each book that I read by Kerrigan Byrne the more I love, she is a rising star that I know I am going to keep in my sites.
So it’s no secret that I love me a berserker and that I snap up just about anything I can find that features these fierce warriors. There is just something about a warrior that is so fierce and can fly into a rage and slaughter entire armies but yet be so gentle with his mate as if she is the most cherished thing he has ever come across. Finn is no different. All of his life he has been unwanted, the bastard son of some unknown berserker, even his own clan treats him worse than the dogs they make him eat with. Always he has longed for a family or even a name, something to tell him who he is or where he came from. When he meets Rhona he finds a measure of calm within his raging storm. His attraction is as fierce as he is and he can’t help himself when he propositions her for one night, one night he can allow himself before he walks to his very doom because there is little chance of his walking away from a fight with two mated berserkers. Such is his life as soon as he finds something he wants to keep, he knows it’s all going to be taken away. His loneliness is so tangible that it leaves an ache in your heart. Finn is such a strong character that it saddens you to feel his despair. Finn will capture your heart and leave you breathless!
Rhona is much like Finn and yet so different. She is soft where he is hard, a bleeding heart especially when it comes to children. Having lost her own child she yearns for what she has lost. She has a fierce protective streak which by the end of the night transfers to Finn. In Finn she finds what she has always lacked a handsome warrior that makes her feel treasured. Her life has been a series of disappointments going from bad to worse, and now she is at the very edge of desperation. Her very survival is becoming harder and harder, until a strange man shows up at her door during a raging storm. In her one night with Finn she discovers what her body was made to feel but never did. She also discovers a depth of emotion that she didn’t know was possible especially only having known the warrior for such a short period. You will love Rhona as much as you love Finn. She protects the foundling baby as if it was her own. When she is struggling with herself you are rooting for her to break through, knowing what she has in store for her on the other side. After their night together even though she knows it is futile she takes Finn into her heart as easily as she took him into her body, but she doesn’t know that his life is basically forfeit.
K. Byrne just has this way of writing that is part lyrical, part humor and all passionate and it’s a combination I cannot resist. And why should I resist? When it’s that good there is no reason to say no, just say yes! You quickly get immersed into this story of two memorable easy to love characters. This is a love story that will warm your heart and will keep you entertained with its passion and epic battles.
Each book that I read by Kerrigan Byrne the more I love, she is a rising star that I know I am going to keep in my sites.
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