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Mackenzies & McBrides #11.6
A Very Highland Holiday
Ashley… Crosby… Le Veque… Knight… Burke… Byrne…
It’s an enchanting Christmas in the Highlands with some of your favorite Historical Romance authors!
It’s Christmas Eve 1747, and the Highlands are snowy. In the village of Calvine, north of Tay Forest, along a road that leads straight into Inverness, the only tavern in town is packed to the rafters with travelers.
Eight months after the disastrous defeat at Culloden, the people haven’t recovered, nor has the land, and it’s a bad winter. But inside the tavern known as Balthazar’s Inn, the magic that is Christmas is about to happen.
A blustery innkeeper, his sensitive daughter, and a cast of unique characters passing through the careworn tavern will bring you six captivating stories of reflection, joy, and enthrallment that is the very spirit of the holiday season.
Welcome to an enchanting limited-edition collection you won’t soon forget!
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque - When James de Lohr heads into the wilds of Scotland to discover what happened to his brother at the Battle of Culloden, his stay at Balthazar’s Tavern has an unexpected twist. On a night when angels walk the earth, James comes face to face with his very own guardian angel.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley - Fiona McDonald is overjoyed to see Stuart Cameron alive and well after his imprisonment by the English, but her worries are not over. Stuart Cameron owes his safety to a pair of smugglers who have come to collect on their debt, and Stuart will need her help to win himself free.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby - Lady Elizabeth Easton finds herself suffering a terrible case of wedding nerves. She feigns illness, stopping to recover at a highland inn where she signs in as the “MacKinnon's bride.” Presumed dead at Culloden, Callum MacKinnon stops at the inn, intending to clean up before his return as the prodigal son. Imagine his surprise to find his “bride to be” has already procured them a room.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne - A solstice blizzard drives Victorian photographer Vanessa Latimer to a crowded Highland Inn where the only available room is haunted by the ghost of a fallen warrior unwilling to give up his side of the bed.
Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke - When Tavish Crawford learns treasure hunter Elspeth Marshall is on the trail of his family’s missing legacy, he swears to prevent her at any cost. As nefarious forces threaten them both, he realizes he must not only protect the mystical sword, but the woman who has stolen his heart.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - For eight months, Thane Menzies has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally, he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
From our families to yours, we wish you the very best of the holiday season!
It’s an enchanting Christmas in the Highlands with some of your favorite Historical Romance authors!
It’s Christmas Eve 1747, and the Highlands are snowy. In the village of Calvine, north of Tay Forest, along a road that leads straight into Inverness, the only tavern in town is packed to the rafters with travelers.
Eight months after the disastrous defeat at Culloden, the people haven’t recovered, nor has the land, and it’s a bad winter. But inside the tavern known as Balthazar’s Inn, the magic that is Christmas is about to happen.
A blustery innkeeper, his sensitive daughter, and a cast of unique characters passing through the careworn tavern will bring you six captivating stories of reflection, joy, and enthrallment that is the very spirit of the holiday season.
Welcome to an enchanting limited-edition collection you won’t soon forget!
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque - When James de Lohr heads into the wilds of Scotland to discover what happened to his brother at the Battle of Culloden, his stay at Balthazar’s Tavern has an unexpected twist. On a night when angels walk the earth, James comes face to face with his very own guardian angel.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley - Fiona McDonald is overjoyed to see Stuart Cameron alive and well after his imprisonment by the English, but her worries are not over. Stuart Cameron owes his safety to a pair of smugglers who have come to collect on their debt, and Stuart will need her help to win himself free.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby - Lady Elizabeth Easton finds herself suffering a terrible case of wedding nerves. She feigns illness, stopping to recover at a highland inn where she signs in as the “MacKinnon's bride.” Presumed dead at Culloden, Callum MacKinnon stops at the inn, intending to clean up before his return as the prodigal son. Imagine his surprise to find his “bride to be” has already procured them a room.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne - A solstice blizzard drives Victorian photographer Vanessa Latimer to a crowded Highland Inn where the only available room is haunted by the ghost of a fallen warrior unwilling to give up his side of the bed.
Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke - When Tavish Crawford learns treasure hunter Elspeth Marshall is on the trail of his family’s missing legacy, he swears to prevent her at any cost. As nefarious forces threaten them both, he realizes he must not only protect the mystical sword, but the woman who has stolen his heart.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - For eight months, Thane Menzies has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally, he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
From our families to yours, we wish you the very best of the holiday season!
528 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2020
106 people are currently reading
757 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Ashley
218 books7,343 followersNY Times Bestselling author Jennifer Ashley writes historical, contemporary, and paranormal romance, historical mysteries, and urban fantasy as Jennifer Ashley, Allyson James, and Ashley Gardner.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
Jennifer's novels have been translated into many different languages, and earned starred reviews from Booklist and Publisher's Weekly. More about her books at http://www.jenniferashley.com and http://gardnermysteries.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
October 25, 2020
Look at the authors and weep--for joy!
What a stunning array of authors in one beguilingly gift wrapped cover.
Some of my favs entertaining with Christmas surprises of the past, of the unknown.
All stories are set in the Calvine Village in the Scottish Highlands. Balthazar’s Tavern on the road to Inverness is the focal point for the stories. Culloden is nearby and the tavern owner's daughter Carrie has setup a secret room of artifacts from the battle, from both sides of the conflict. Some Carrie has collected, some have been brought to her. She calls the room 'the Chamber of Sorrows. That’s what it is, ye know… a place full of sorrow. But it’s also a shrine tae the brave dead.”'
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque is set just months after the Culloden War. (1746) A Sassenach, the new Earl James de Lohr, has come looking for his older brother's body and family heirlooms. There are some moments that drew me to tears particularly around the letters between the brothers. James finds romance in an unexpected place.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne
'Calvine Village, Highlands, Scotland –1891 Winter Solstice
Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer, to a crowded Highland Inn'
I loved this, a super sequel to James' story set over 100 years later. Ghosts of Christmas' past indeed!
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
A look back into the Mackenzie's and MacBride's past. Culloden has left in its wake disasters and acts of bravery. Once again the Balthazer plays a part. Ian Mackenzie (one of my all time loves) retells his children a story of their ancestors, Stuart Cameron and Fiona MacDonald.
One Nights Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
A young woman on her way to her betrothal finds herself stranded at an inn, and hand fasted to an entirely different person. There's a mystery about Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe. Exactly why she's been deserted by her father and commandeered into marriage to an unknown highland family, especially after Culloden is puzzling.
Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
1744-46. A storyteller, an enchanted sword lost at Culloden, dark enemies, and a handsome stranger. All converge at Balthazar's Inn where truths are uncovered and love wins. A story related to Burke's wonderful Legendary Rogues series.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
Thane Shaw is burning up with the need for revenge. His twin sister and her husband died during Culloden and he suspects this was deliberate. He is going to make the Campbell's pay. He will steal their jewel, the beautiful Sarah. He just didn't count on meeting Sarah as she flees her family lands.
A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
What a stunning array of authors in one beguilingly gift wrapped cover.
Some of my favs entertaining with Christmas surprises of the past, of the unknown.
All stories are set in the Calvine Village in the Scottish Highlands. Balthazar’s Tavern on the road to Inverness is the focal point for the stories. Culloden is nearby and the tavern owner's daughter Carrie has setup a secret room of artifacts from the battle, from both sides of the conflict. Some Carrie has collected, some have been brought to her. She calls the room 'the Chamber of Sorrows. That’s what it is, ye know… a place full of sorrow. But it’s also a shrine tae the brave dead.”'
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque is set just months after the Culloden War. (1746) A Sassenach, the new Earl James de Lohr, has come looking for his older brother's body and family heirlooms. There are some moments that drew me to tears particularly around the letters between the brothers. James finds romance in an unexpected place.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne
'Calvine Village, Highlands, Scotland –1891 Winter Solstice
Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer, to a crowded Highland Inn'
I loved this, a super sequel to James' story set over 100 years later. Ghosts of Christmas' past indeed!
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
A look back into the Mackenzie's and MacBride's past. Culloden has left in its wake disasters and acts of bravery. Once again the Balthazer plays a part. Ian Mackenzie (one of my all time loves) retells his children a story of their ancestors, Stuart Cameron and Fiona MacDonald.
One Nights Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
A young woman on her way to her betrothal finds herself stranded at an inn, and hand fasted to an entirely different person. There's a mystery about Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe. Exactly why she's been deserted by her father and commandeered into marriage to an unknown highland family, especially after Culloden is puzzling.
Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
1744-46. A storyteller, an enchanted sword lost at Culloden, dark enemies, and a handsome stranger. All converge at Balthazar's Inn where truths are uncovered and love wins. A story related to Burke's wonderful Legendary Rogues series.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
Thane Shaw is burning up with the need for revenge. His twin sister and her husband died during Culloden and he suspects this was deliberate. He is going to make the Campbell's pay. He will steal their jewel, the beautiful Sarah. He just didn't count on meeting Sarah as she flees her family lands.
A Dragonblade ARC via NetGalley
Please note: Quotes taken from an advanced reading copy maybe subject to change
December 8, 2020
In the wake of the devastating Battle of Culloden, Christmas cheer is hard to come by. However, with a momentous stay at the Balthazar in the village of Calvine situated in the Scottish Highlands not far from the battlefield a bit of Christmas, magic can achieve much. A Very Highland Christmas features six novellas from some sensational historical romance writers. I've read books by half and have the other half on my wish list so it took less time than the twinkle of the Christmas lights to have me delighted to read this holiday historical anthology.
The anthology ties together with each story set at the inn and connected to the nearby battlefield. I could tell that some are connected to series by the authors like Ashley's story was from her MacKenzie world and Crosby's was a prequel, but not sure if all were. I had no trouble treating them as standalones.
As with many an anthology, I loved a couple, really liked most of the others and found one moderately likeable. To be fair, I think the okay one was due to writing style for me rather than anything really lacking. I liked the variety in the writing and where they all took their stories.
For novellas, they had good development of characters and situations though a couple presumed romance rather than showing it building like LeVeque's that focused on the brothers more than the romance. Byrne's had me teary-eyed with the tragic and I found Knight's was relaxing as a low angst opposite. There was paranormal in a couple with Burke's being the strongest about a legendary sword.
In summary, I thought spending Christmas in the historical, magical highlands was fabulous and would gladly pick up more from every one of these authors particularly in novel-length to see them all delve deeper into their characters, plot, and setting. I wanted a variety of historicals and romantic situations and this anthology delivers so I can definitely recommend it.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
The anthology ties together with each story set at the inn and connected to the nearby battlefield. I could tell that some are connected to series by the authors like Ashley's story was from her MacKenzie world and Crosby's was a prequel, but not sure if all were. I had no trouble treating them as standalones.
As with many an anthology, I loved a couple, really liked most of the others and found one moderately likeable. To be fair, I think the okay one was due to writing style for me rather than anything really lacking. I liked the variety in the writing and where they all took their stories.
For novellas, they had good development of characters and situations though a couple presumed romance rather than showing it building like LeVeque's that focused on the brothers more than the romance. Byrne's had me teary-eyed with the tragic and I found Knight's was relaxing as a low angst opposite. There was paranormal in a couple with Burke's being the strongest about a legendary sword.
In summary, I thought spending Christmas in the historical, magical highlands was fabulous and would gladly pick up more from every one of these authors particularly in novel-length to see them all delve deeper into their characters, plot, and setting. I wanted a variety of historicals and romantic situations and this anthology delivers so I can definitely recommend it.
I rec'd this book from Net Galley to read in exchange for an honest review.
November 30, 2020
Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) provided by the Author and Publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an fair and honest review.
This collection of six Novellas are connected by an Inn and Tavern, The Balthazar in Calvin Village, Highlands, Scotland, the time, eight months after the Battle of Culloden and the Magic of Christmas. I loved it. It has wonderful magic and makes you . . . believe.
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque: 4-Stars James de Lohr has traveled from England to the Scottish Highlands to find any trace he could of his brother, Jonathan, who died at the Battle of Culloden. His heart is heavy because he and his brother had been at odds before his death. At the Balthazar Inn and Tavern in Calvin Village he meets a special young lady and an angel who help him find the peace he seeks.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne: 5-Stars A paranormal tale about Vanessa Latimer, an independent woman, who is trapped at the Balthazar Inn during a blizzard on the Solstice. The Inn is packed and the innkeeper is forced to lend her the only room not occupied - the one haunted by the ghost of an English officer, Johnathan de Lohr, who perished at the Battle of Culloden 150 years ago. Some Solstice magic is afoot and it is long overdue.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley: 4-Stars Fiona McDonald has spent the months since the Battle of Culloden aiding the outlaw Highlanders. Just before Christmas she has one last delivery before heading to her home. Her brother, the McDonald Laird, sided with the English. The man she loved was captured, but a surprised Fiona finds him alive at the Balthazar Inn. Stuart Cameron is making his way to Fiona when chance puts them both at the Inn.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby: 5-Stars Lady Elizabeth Easton is traveling to do her duty. Her wedding will save a distinguished Highland family. She finds the Balthazar Inn and presents herself as the finds herself as “MacKinnon's bride.” When Callum MacKinnon, who was wounded and hasn't been seen since Culloden, arrives at the Inn he is shocked and pleased to find Elizabeth waiting in his bed.
The Legend of a Rogue (Highland Hearts) by Darcy Burke: 4-Stars Elspeth Marshall is a collector of ancient legends. As she is telling a story to a group of children, she attracts the attention of a handsome stranger who is listening rather intently. They share some stories and a few heated kisses and he disappears. Two years later, eight months after the Battle of Culloden, they meet again at the Balthazar Inn where each is pursuing a mystical flaming sword seen at Culloden. Tavish Crawford lost his heart to Elspeth two years ago and he will do anything to protect her from those who would kill to have the sword.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight: 4-Stars
With Scotland routed after Culloden and many clans without leadership. Thane Shaw's sister died a victim of hatred and jealousy and he wants revenge. He figures the death of a Campbell sister is just revenge. What a surprise when he attempts the abduction of Lady Sarah only to find her dressed and with her bag packed!
This collection of six Novellas are connected by an Inn and Tavern, The Balthazar in Calvin Village, Highlands, Scotland, the time, eight months after the Battle of Culloden and the Magic of Christmas. I loved it. It has wonderful magic and makes you . . . believe.
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque: 4-Stars James de Lohr has traveled from England to the Scottish Highlands to find any trace he could of his brother, Jonathan, who died at the Battle of Culloden. His heart is heavy because he and his brother had been at odds before his death. At the Balthazar Inn and Tavern in Calvin Village he meets a special young lady and an angel who help him find the peace he seeks.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne: 5-Stars A paranormal tale about Vanessa Latimer, an independent woman, who is trapped at the Balthazar Inn during a blizzard on the Solstice. The Inn is packed and the innkeeper is forced to lend her the only room not occupied - the one haunted by the ghost of an English officer, Johnathan de Lohr, who perished at the Battle of Culloden 150 years ago. Some Solstice magic is afoot and it is long overdue.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley: 4-Stars Fiona McDonald has spent the months since the Battle of Culloden aiding the outlaw Highlanders. Just before Christmas she has one last delivery before heading to her home. Her brother, the McDonald Laird, sided with the English. The man she loved was captured, but a surprised Fiona finds him alive at the Balthazar Inn. Stuart Cameron is making his way to Fiona when chance puts them both at the Inn.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby: 5-Stars Lady Elizabeth Easton is traveling to do her duty. Her wedding will save a distinguished Highland family. She finds the Balthazar Inn and presents herself as the finds herself as “MacKinnon's bride.” When Callum MacKinnon, who was wounded and hasn't been seen since Culloden, arrives at the Inn he is shocked and pleased to find Elizabeth waiting in his bed.
The Legend of a Rogue (Highland Hearts) by Darcy Burke: 4-Stars Elspeth Marshall is a collector of ancient legends. As she is telling a story to a group of children, she attracts the attention of a handsome stranger who is listening rather intently. They share some stories and a few heated kisses and he disappears. Two years later, eight months after the Battle of Culloden, they meet again at the Balthazar Inn where each is pursuing a mystical flaming sword seen at Culloden. Tavish Crawford lost his heart to Elspeth two years ago and he will do anything to protect her from those who would kill to have the sword.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight: 4-Stars
With Scotland routed after Culloden and many clans without leadership. Thane Shaw's sister died a victim of hatred and jealousy and he wants revenge. He figures the death of a Campbell sister is just revenge. What a surprise when he attempts the abduction of Lady Sarah only to find her dressed and with her bag packed!
October 23, 2020
I have only read Darcy Burke's contribution to this anthology (so far) and my 5 star rating is based on that novella.
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke:
Elspeth Marshall thinks she has met the man of her dreams when she meets Roy Williams at the Lammas Fair. A storyteller and collector of stories, Elspeth is captivated by the handsome stranger who tells her the tale of the sword Lann Dhearg, which is purported to be the twin of Dyrnwyn, the sword given to Gareth of King Arthur lore, but what steals her heart is the kiss they share and his promise to return. Two years later, Elspeth is traveling with her aunt when they are forced to make an unplanned stop at an inn due to the snowy weather. In the common room hears bits and pieces of a story that sounds familiar, of a sword that flames red-orange – Lann Dhearg, in an effort to hear more, she moves closer to the men talking, explains she records stories and would like to include theirs. When the English soldiers begin to harass the men, another man intervenes – a man that has haunted her dreams for two long years, Roy Williams. But this man doesn’t seem to recognize her, a slight she is not willing to let pass.
Tavish Crawford, Lord Strathclyde, aka John MacLean aka Roy Williams is on a mission to find Lann Dhearg, his family’s sword, which he lost while fighting at Culloden. He sees Elspeth and hopes she doesn’t remember him, at least not in front of the English soldiers – Tavish is a Jacobite sympathizer and is wanted by the English. Unfortunately, Elspeth does remember him and confronts him while he is conversing with the English. He tells her she is mistaken; he is not Roy Williams; he is John MacLean. Confused and angry, she leaves the room, he smooths things over with the soldiers and then tracks down Elspeth, hoping to smooth things over with her as well.
Elspeth agrees to hear Tavish’s story and even offers to help him find his lost sword. It is clear that connection they had is just as strong today as it was two years ago and she is not willing to walk away from the possibly of a future with him. But Tavish is not the only one looking for the sword – members of the Order of the Round Table are hot on its trail as well mistakenly believing it is one the Thirteen Treasures of Britain. So before Elspeth and Tavish can even think about HEA – they will have to reclaim Lann Dhearg and defeat the members of the Order – a feat easier said than done.
I really enjoyed this prequel to the Legendary Rogues series, it is a well written, fast paced novella with a nod to the movie “Die Hard”. This book has it all, wonderful characters, action, steamyish love scenes, a bit of mystery, some intrigue and finally a great HEA complete with an epilogue! If you have read the series, this is a great addition and introduces “The Order” – if you haven’t read it, this novella is a great introduction to the series – but let me warn you to be prepared to be sucked into the “Thirteen Treasures” and the Heroes and Heroines who seek them!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me upon request – all opinions are my own.*
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke:
Elspeth Marshall thinks she has met the man of her dreams when she meets Roy Williams at the Lammas Fair. A storyteller and collector of stories, Elspeth is captivated by the handsome stranger who tells her the tale of the sword Lann Dhearg, which is purported to be the twin of Dyrnwyn, the sword given to Gareth of King Arthur lore, but what steals her heart is the kiss they share and his promise to return. Two years later, Elspeth is traveling with her aunt when they are forced to make an unplanned stop at an inn due to the snowy weather. In the common room hears bits and pieces of a story that sounds familiar, of a sword that flames red-orange – Lann Dhearg, in an effort to hear more, she moves closer to the men talking, explains she records stories and would like to include theirs. When the English soldiers begin to harass the men, another man intervenes – a man that has haunted her dreams for two long years, Roy Williams. But this man doesn’t seem to recognize her, a slight she is not willing to let pass.
Tavish Crawford, Lord Strathclyde, aka John MacLean aka Roy Williams is on a mission to find Lann Dhearg, his family’s sword, which he lost while fighting at Culloden. He sees Elspeth and hopes she doesn’t remember him, at least not in front of the English soldiers – Tavish is a Jacobite sympathizer and is wanted by the English. Unfortunately, Elspeth does remember him and confronts him while he is conversing with the English. He tells her she is mistaken; he is not Roy Williams; he is John MacLean. Confused and angry, she leaves the room, he smooths things over with the soldiers and then tracks down Elspeth, hoping to smooth things over with her as well.
Elspeth agrees to hear Tavish’s story and even offers to help him find his lost sword. It is clear that connection they had is just as strong today as it was two years ago and she is not willing to walk away from the possibly of a future with him. But Tavish is not the only one looking for the sword – members of the Order of the Round Table are hot on its trail as well mistakenly believing it is one the Thirteen Treasures of Britain. So before Elspeth and Tavish can even think about HEA – they will have to reclaim Lann Dhearg and defeat the members of the Order – a feat easier said than done.
I really enjoyed this prequel to the Legendary Rogues series, it is a well written, fast paced novella with a nod to the movie “Die Hard”. This book has it all, wonderful characters, action, steamyish love scenes, a bit of mystery, some intrigue and finally a great HEA complete with an epilogue! If you have read the series, this is a great addition and introduces “The Order” – if you haven’t read it, this novella is a great introduction to the series – but let me warn you to be prepared to be sucked into the “Thirteen Treasures” and the Heroes and Heroines who seek them!!
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that was provided to me upon request – all opinions are my own.*
November 3, 2020
Review will be published soon
February 3, 2021
A truly enchanting collection from some of the most beloved authors of the genre, “A Very Highland Holiday” is an absolute must for fans this holiday season.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Read full review in the 2021 February issue of InD'tale Magazine.
October 31, 2020
3.5 stars. A Very Highland Christmas is a fun, holiday themed, historical romance anthology from some of the best authors of the genre. This was a pretty good anthology with enjoyable stories. This anthology's stories all take place after the battle of Culloden and the Jacobite rebellion. They each have scenes set in an inn in Scotland run by a quirky family of characters and many of the stories have a paranormal element. There are a several stories I really liked and a few that were just okay to me, so I am rating this 3.5 stars. In general, I liked this anthology and felt it was worth reading.
Here are my thoughts about the stories:
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque - 3.25 stars. This was an interesting story, but I found it dragged in parts. It felt a little lacking in chemistry and depth. Still, it was entertaining, in general.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley - 3.25 stars. This story was an okay read. I thought it was interesting, but I didn't feel any chemistry or love. This was a long story and I felt like it was long enough to feel more of the emotions having built up, but I never felt it.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby - 3.25 stars. This story was only okay for me. It was interesting enough, but was nothing extra special. I didn't really feel the love between the couple. Still, it was not bad.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne - 3.5-3.75 stars. This was my favorite of the stories in this anthology. I enjoyed this story. The couple had great chemistry. I wanted to read more about them.
Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke - 2 stars. This was my least favorite of the bunch. This story felt too long. There was too much paranormal stuff going on and not enough romance. There was also too many extra characters, which left the story feeling chaotic without enough focus on the love story. I didn't really enjoy this story.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - 3.5 stars. This was a quick, easy reading story. It was low angst, low heat and chemistry, but entertaining enough.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book with lots of Holiday cheer. There is a lot of variety of stories and authors in this anthology so there is something for everyone. It is definitely worth picking up!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
Here are my thoughts about the stories:
The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque - 3.25 stars. This was an interesting story, but I found it dragged in parts. It felt a little lacking in chemistry and depth. Still, it was entertaining, in general.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley - 3.25 stars. This story was an okay read. I thought it was interesting, but I didn't feel any chemistry or love. This was a long story and I felt like it was long enough to feel more of the emotions having built up, but I never felt it.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby - 3.25 stars. This story was only okay for me. It was interesting enough, but was nothing extra special. I didn't really feel the love between the couple. Still, it was not bad.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne - 3.5-3.75 stars. This was my favorite of the stories in this anthology. I enjoyed this story. The couple had great chemistry. I wanted to read more about them.
Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke - 2 stars. This was my least favorite of the bunch. This story felt too long. There was too much paranormal stuff going on and not enough romance. There was also too many extra characters, which left the story feeling chaotic without enough focus on the love story. I didn't really enjoy this story.
The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - 3.5 stars. This was a quick, easy reading story. It was low angst, low heat and chemistry, but entertaining enough.
Overall, this was an enjoyable book with lots of Holiday cheer. There is a lot of variety of stories and authors in this anthology so there is something for everyone. It is definitely worth picking up!
*arc provided in exchange for an honest review*
December 23, 2020
A Very Highland Christmas is another Christmas Anthology I decided to tackle this season. This anthology has 6 charming novellas written by some fantastic romance authors!
1) The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque
2) Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
3) One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
4) The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne
5) Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke
6) The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
All of these tales are connected. They take place after the tragic Battle of Culloden. There is an Inn that carries the legends, the pain, and the ghosts of Culloden. The daughter of the innkeeper went to the battlefield and collected items from fallen soldiers in case their family came looking for them. This touching act affects many travelers who come to stay at this inn.
My two favorite tales out of this collection are The Earl in Winter and The Earl of Christmas Past. James has inherited the title after his brother fell at the Battle of Culloden. He has come to bring his body back home to lay in the family crypt but also to find the family ring. He and his brother didn’t get along in life, but a young woman came across his letters to his brother. This tale is touching and emotional. Brotherly love and forgiveness are at the heart of this tale. The next tale takes place over a hundred years later. A young woman travels taking photos after her family disowned her. She finds herself in the middle of a storm, desperate to find a room. The only room left to let is haunted by the ghost of Johnathon, an English soldier who fell at Culloden and is the brother of James in the previous story. I had to admit that this story struck me as a little odd at first. But the ending is sweet and brought a wonderful conclusion to both novellas.
All of the stories were wonderful but those were the two that stood out the most. If you are like me and love historical romance during this time of year then this collection is for you! I rate this anthology 4 out of 5 stars!
1) The Knight of Christmas Future by Kathryn Le Veque
2) Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
3) One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
4) The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne
5) Highland Hearts by Darcy Burke
6) The Highlander Who Nearly Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
All of these tales are connected. They take place after the tragic Battle of Culloden. There is an Inn that carries the legends, the pain, and the ghosts of Culloden. The daughter of the innkeeper went to the battlefield and collected items from fallen soldiers in case their family came looking for them. This touching act affects many travelers who come to stay at this inn.
My two favorite tales out of this collection are The Earl in Winter and The Earl of Christmas Past. James has inherited the title after his brother fell at the Battle of Culloden. He has come to bring his body back home to lay in the family crypt but also to find the family ring. He and his brother didn’t get along in life, but a young woman came across his letters to his brother. This tale is touching and emotional. Brotherly love and forgiveness are at the heart of this tale. The next tale takes place over a hundred years later. A young woman travels taking photos after her family disowned her. She finds herself in the middle of a storm, desperate to find a room. The only room left to let is haunted by the ghost of Johnathon, an English soldier who fell at Culloden and is the brother of James in the previous story. I had to admit that this story struck me as a little odd at first. But the ending is sweet and brought a wonderful conclusion to both novellas.
All of the stories were wonderful but those were the two that stood out the most. If you are like me and love historical romance during this time of year then this collection is for you! I rate this anthology 4 out of 5 stars!
December 24, 2020
This review is based only on the story by Jennifer Ashley.
I like reading these little Mackenzies Christmas stories. While I enjoy the stories of the past, I like more Ian telling them to one of the kids and how by the end of the story the whole clan is there.
Fiona was definitely a force to be reckoned with. I'm glad that the men in her life let her do what needed to be done and gave her support when she needed it.
I like reading these little Mackenzies Christmas stories. While I enjoy the stories of the past, I like more Ian telling them to one of the kids and how by the end of the story the whole clan is there.
Fiona was definitely a force to be reckoned with. I'm glad that the men in her life let her do what needed to be done and gave her support when she needed it.
October 27, 2020
Elspeth Marshall was a story teller but also a collector of tales. Whilst telling one of her story she meets Roy Williams. They feel an instant attraction but he is moving further north. When they meet again, Elspeth finds there is more to Roy than she first thought. Elspeth is a strong woman and is not afraid to go after what she wants. There are a number of secrets to unravel, some very dangerous events and passionate moments. This was an entertaining read.
I like the concept of all the stories having a connection to an inn on a Scottish village and I look forward to reading the rest of the stories.
I like the concept of all the stories having a connection to an inn on a Scottish village and I look forward to reading the rest of the stories.
May 9, 2022
From an absolute unimaginable heartbreaking of the battle ground of Culloden on April 16, 1746 ~ this collection has succeeded in bringing love, joy, goodness, and peace to us ~ to all the readers. Thank You.
The Earl in Winter By Kathryn Le Veque
Five Captivating-My-Heart Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this novella so much. Especially Loved the motto of the House of de Lohr ➡️ Fidelis Semper Ever Faithful. I'd just cop out and confirmed that the author had succeeded in compelling me to feel what she'd intended her readers to. And I totally felt way beyond that, to be honest.
The Earl of Christmas Past By Kerrigan Byrne
Five To-Die-For-Hero & Heroine Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Super romantic love story between Johnathan de Lohr, Earl of Worchester & Hereford of the Past as well as of the Present, and Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer. I didn't see the "twist" coming for the happy ending! So yeah ~ I'd love to add A Hundred More Blowing-Me-Away Stars ~ please?
Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders By Jennifer Ashley
Five Lord-Ian's-Magic Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I bought this anthology for Lord Ian's novella. But I ended up falling crazy in love with the entire collection. So ~ yeah ~ a Big Shout Out to the One & Only Ian Mackenzie💝
Lord Ian told the love story of Stuart Cameron, a friend of his ancestors'. Stuart wouldn't have survived the captivity, certain death and returned to Fiona Macdonald if not for Alec Mackenzie! And yes, the story was as magical as all things related to Lord Ian.
Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
One Knight's Stand By Tanya Anne Crosby
Five Super-Romantic-Callum & Elizabeth Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved the genius matchmaking arranged for the rightful heir of Clan MacKinnon, Callum (who was tainted as a traitor & declared dead,) & Elizabeth by her remorseful cousin! What a Happy Ending!
The Legend of a Rogue By Darcy Burke
Five I-Want-More-Legend-of-a-Rogue Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story of Elspeth and her rogue with various alias (Tavish Crawford ~ John MacLean ~ or Lord Strathclyde) made me yearn to read The Legendary Rogues series! So captivating and gripping!
My favorite quotes:
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas By Eliza Knight
Five Wondrous-Love-Plus-Perfect-Retribution Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The final novella of this anthology was heartwarming and super adorable! The author has given an amazing tribute to How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
💝🎁🎄Sharing some of my favorite quotes:
The Earl in Winter By Kathryn Le Veque
Five Captivating-My-Heart Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved this novella so much. Especially Loved the motto of the House of de Lohr ➡️ Fidelis Semper Ever Faithful. I'd just cop out and confirmed that the author had succeeded in compelling me to feel what she'd intended her readers to. And I totally felt way beyond that, to be honest.
"I hope you enjoy this poignant, tender, and sometimes tearful tale of love - of brotherly love, and also the love between a hero and his heroine.
The Earl of Christmas Past By Kerrigan Byrne
Five To-Die-For-Hero & Heroine Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Super romantic love story between Johnathan de Lohr, Earl of Worchester & Hereford of the Past as well as of the Present, and Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer. I didn't see the "twist" coming for the happy ending! So yeah ~ I'd love to add A Hundred More Blowing-Me-Away Stars ~ please?
Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
As much as he desired her heart, he also wanted it free. Because she wold live the most extraordinariy life, and he was just lucky to be a part of it for one memorable solstice night."
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders By Jennifer Ashley
Five Lord-Ian's-Magic Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I bought this anthology for Lord Ian's novella. But I ended up falling crazy in love with the entire collection. So ~ yeah ~ a Big Shout Out to the One & Only Ian Mackenzie💝
Lord Ian told the love story of Stuart Cameron, a friend of his ancestors'. Stuart wouldn't have survived the captivity, certain death and returned to Fiona Macdonald if not for Alec Mackenzie! And yes, the story was as magical as all things related to Lord Ian.
Sharing one of my favorite scenes:
Come with me, lass, away from this rotten bastard who'll drag ye into the muck with him. . . .
I can't, Stuart. Fiona had let her voice go soft. When it's over, and if you're alive, you come back to me.
One Knight's Stand By Tanya Anne Crosby
Five Super-Romantic-Callum & Elizabeth Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Loved the genius matchmaking arranged for the rightful heir of Clan MacKinnon, Callum (who was tainted as a traitor & declared dead,) & Elizabeth by her remorseful cousin! What a Happy Ending!
The Legend of a Rogue By Darcy Burke
Five I-Want-More-Legend-of-a-Rogue Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The story of Elspeth and her rogue with various alias (Tavish Crawford ~ John MacLean ~ or Lord Strathclyde) made me yearn to read The Legendary Rogues series! So captivating and gripping!
My favorite quotes:
"When I was fighting to save you, I knew I loved you—more than anything. That love and the hope for our future together extinguished the flame.". . .
“Your love for me saved us all?” . . .
“That, in addition to your quick thinking and expert paring knife skills." . . .
“You are the story I always hoped my life might be,” . . .
“Then let us write it."
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas By Eliza Knight
Five Wondrous-Love-Plus-Perfect-Retribution Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The final novella of this anthology was heartwarming and super adorable! The author has given an amazing tribute to How the Grinch Stole Christmas! by Dr. Seuss
💝🎁🎄Sharing some of my favorite quotes:
91%
Lady Sarah Campbell was about to become collateral damage in a war waged between clans . . .
This was ludicrous. She was actually helping him abduct her. This chore could not have been any easier. He was a little disappointed.
94%
“Why are ye being so agreeable?” he asked. “I abducted ye. I am dangerous.”
99%
"I canna believe that I set out to steal ye, and instead, ye've stolen my heart."
December 3, 2020
Finally wrapped this one up. The whole collection was good. I particularly enjoyed The Earl in Winter The Earl of Christmas Past and Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders: A Mackenzies / McBrides Holiday Novella but they were all very good. If you are a Highlander Historical Romance reader, you'll enjoy this collection. Happy reading!
October 27, 2020
It’s release day for A Very Highland Holiday by Jennifer Ashley, Tanya Anne Crosby, Kathryn Le Veque, Kerrigan Byrne, Darcy Burke and Eliza Knight! I loved reading my fellow authors' contributions to this awesome collection!
Check out my story: The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - For eight months, Thane Shaw has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
Check out my story: The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight - For eight months, Thane Shaw has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
October 20, 2020
The ratings for the six novellas average to 3.58 stars, which will round up to 4 stars for the anthology as a whole.
There were definite highs and lows here — I loved the stories by Byrne and Ashley, disliked the one by Le Veque, and the remaining three (by Crosby, Burke, and Knight) were just fine.
I did, however, really like the overall setting and how the stories were tied together. The inn was fantastic, the Room of Sorrows was touching, and the fallout from Culloden added drama and emotion to it all.
The Earl in Winter by Katherine Le Veque
2.5 stars
This first novella didn’t really do it for me, and I’m hoping the rest of the collection picks up. The focus of this story was far more about the relationship between the hero and his brother, rather than the hero and the heroine. It’s almost like the author came up with the brother story first, then shoehorned in a love interest so that it could fit in a romance anthology. I also just wasn’t wild about her writing style - very on the nose and over-explanatory. Plus the hero had a stutter, but only on the first word of each sentence/speech. Never in the middle. Don’t think that’s how stutters work.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne
5 stars
The existence of the first story is justified just by setting up the glory that is this second novella. I’ve been meaning to read something by Kerrigan Byrne for ages, and I will definitely seek something out sooner rather than later. I’ve never had such an emotional reaction to a novella. I struggled to see how a woman falling in love with a ghost could have a happy ending, but Byrne pulled it off. Fantastic. Probably the best novella I’ve ever read.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders - Jennifer Ashley
4.5 stars
I will read literally anything Ashley writes about the Mackenzies, or their in-laws, or their friends, or their neighbors... This excellent novella ties into that world well, but doesn’t expect you to remember the plot intricacies of the other books. Strong characters and backstory. An interesting and believable plot, even if it was resolved a tad too easily.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
3 stars
A very meh story. The setup was fine, the characters were interesting, and the writing was good enough. It just never reached its potential complexity or connection or emotional depth. Plus it came right after the two incredible stories from Byrne and Ashley, which is a tough task.
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
3.5 stars
Both the hero and the heroine of this novella were fantastic, and I liked the focus on storytelling. The whole quest for a magic sword plot was a bit blah though, and I really didn’t like the Die Hard references (it’s near Christmas and John McLean has to run barefoot through broken glass to save hostages!). It was distracting and took away from the rest of the story.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
3 stars
The idea for this story and backstory for the characters were fantastic, but there just wasn’t enough conflict. Everything came so easily for our hero and heroine. It never felt like there was a question or possibility of things not working out for them. Obviously I want a happy ending, but at least a little conflict please.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There were definite highs and lows here — I loved the stories by Byrne and Ashley, disliked the one by Le Veque, and the remaining three (by Crosby, Burke, and Knight) were just fine.
I did, however, really like the overall setting and how the stories were tied together. The inn was fantastic, the Room of Sorrows was touching, and the fallout from Culloden added drama and emotion to it all.
The Earl in Winter by Katherine Le Veque
2.5 stars
This first novella didn’t really do it for me, and I’m hoping the rest of the collection picks up. The focus of this story was far more about the relationship between the hero and his brother, rather than the hero and the heroine. It’s almost like the author came up with the brother story first, then shoehorned in a love interest so that it could fit in a romance anthology. I also just wasn’t wild about her writing style - very on the nose and over-explanatory. Plus the hero had a stutter, but only on the first word of each sentence/speech. Never in the middle. Don’t think that’s how stutters work.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne
5 stars
The existence of the first story is justified just by setting up the glory that is this second novella. I’ve been meaning to read something by Kerrigan Byrne for ages, and I will definitely seek something out sooner rather than later. I’ve never had such an emotional reaction to a novella. I struggled to see how a woman falling in love with a ghost could have a happy ending, but Byrne pulled it off. Fantastic. Probably the best novella I’ve ever read.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders - Jennifer Ashley
4.5 stars
I will read literally anything Ashley writes about the Mackenzies, or their in-laws, or their friends, or their neighbors... This excellent novella ties into that world well, but doesn’t expect you to remember the plot intricacies of the other books. Strong characters and backstory. An interesting and believable plot, even if it was resolved a tad too easily.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
3 stars
A very meh story. The setup was fine, the characters were interesting, and the writing was good enough. It just never reached its potential complexity or connection or emotional depth. Plus it came right after the two incredible stories from Byrne and Ashley, which is a tough task.
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
3.5 stars
Both the hero and the heroine of this novella were fantastic, and I liked the focus on storytelling. The whole quest for a magic sword plot was a bit blah though, and I really didn’t like the Die Hard references (it’s near Christmas and John McLean has to run barefoot through broken glass to save hostages!). It was distracting and took away from the rest of the story.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
3 stars
The idea for this story and backstory for the characters were fantastic, but there just wasn’t enough conflict. Everything came so easily for our hero and heroine. It never felt like there was a question or possibility of things not working out for them. Obviously I want a happy ending, but at least a little conflict please.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 29, 2020
I haven't read any books in this series but am a huge fan of several of the authors so I was eager to give it a try. Boy am I glad I did. So many wonderful authors all wrapped in one amazing book.
All of the stories are set in Calvine Village which is in the Highlands of Scotland. Near Culloden sits Balthazar’s Tavern on the road to Inverness. The tavern owner's daughter Carrie has a room with artifacts from the battle. Artifacts from both the Scots and the English. setup a secret room of artifacts from the battle, from both sides of the conflict. This is a place where all the magic of Christmas will happen.
Each one of the novellas were well written and I enjoyed them. You do not have to have read any of the series to read these. I had my favorites of course, but all in all these were enjoyable and I loved spending my time off with them.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
All of the stories are set in Calvine Village which is in the Highlands of Scotland. Near Culloden sits Balthazar’s Tavern on the road to Inverness. The tavern owner's daughter Carrie has a room with artifacts from the battle. Artifacts from both the Scots and the English. setup a secret room of artifacts from the battle, from both sides of the conflict. This is a place where all the magic of Christmas will happen.
Each one of the novellas were well written and I enjoyed them. You do not have to have read any of the series to read these. I had my favorites of course, but all in all these were enjoyable and I loved spending my time off with them.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
October 28, 2020
A little something for everyone...
Especially if you like the Highlands.
In this highland-centric, holiday themed collection of novellas. A bit of history (Culloden) a bit of a brogue.
Two books in particular are connected by brothers and about a hundred fifty years (he's a ghost, just go with it).
Enjoyed and recommend.
Especially if you like the Highlands.
In this highland-centric, holiday themed collection of novellas. A bit of history (Culloden) a bit of a brogue.
Two books in particular are connected by brothers and about a hundred fifty years (he's a ghost, just go with it).
Enjoyed and recommend.
October 28, 2020
Book: A Very Highland Holiday
By Tanya Anne Crosby, Kerrigan Byrne, Jennifer Ashley, Eliza Knight, Kathryn Le Veque and Darcy Burke
Release Date: 27/Oct./2020
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
1)Tartan Book Reviews
2)Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3)Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4)Celtic Barb’s Kilted Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars/Kilts
Each story shows the aftermath of the Rising, the catastrophic Culloden Battle nine months later and is a definitely a heartstring puller. The reader will see how life has changed and how people are coping after the devastating battle at Culloden Moor-especially during the holiday season. Readers will see a connection to a place called Balthazar Inn and the Chamber of Sorrows in each story, including the owner ofthe inn, Balthazar and his daughter Carrie. Carrie created the room Chamber of Sorrows at the Balthazar Inn to honor all the fallen warriors from the dead of both Scottish and English warriors. This was done so thieves and scavengers can’t strip them of their belongings . A shrine for the brave fallen warriors of Culloden. Also a place families are welcome to mourn and the pick up some remembrance of their loved ones too. Some followers of these extraordinary authors might recognize a family or clan name or specific characters in the stories previously and from other solo books of these authors too.
One Knights Stand
by Tanya Anne Crosby
“If you’ll do me the honor of becoming my bride, I shall promise to provide for you to the best of my ability and I will honor and cherish you as a man should honor and cherish his wife”...Callum MacKinnon’s handfasting proposal!
31 December 1746, Scotland
Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe, is a twenty-three year old, English woman, that the Scottish people would call a Sassenach, which is an English outsider. She is traveling from England to Scotland to marry a traitor to the crown, hoping it will prevent her cousin’s execution. Elizabeth is being used as a pawn to perform a type of alliance to get her boy groom to side with the English. The only family member that cares about Elizabeth is her cousin James Wolfe, though at this moment she is seriously now rethinking this!
As Elizabeth is being forced to marry a fifteen year old boy, Lachlan Mackinnon, who is supposedly from a family of Scottish traitors according to the crown. No, Elizabeth does not think of Scotland this way, she understands they were only protecting their lands and country from being stolen! Of course her black guard Uncle feels they can control and turn this young Lachlan Mackinnon to their English way of thinking. Basically so they have a spy or someone on their side in the North. It was all a dirty business, as Elizabeth is shaking her head no! She does not believe family loyalty can be switched or coerced so easily. Especially after his loved ones were basically slaughtered by their English executioners!
However, Elizabeth heard young Lachlan’s senior male Mackinnon relatives were executed nine months ago in Culloden Moor. She also assumes that the family home and lands have been confiscated, which is not uncommon for executed traitors. This of course leaves the women, children, elderly, sick, servants and everyone else remaining in the residence in dire straits for survival. In addition both of the elder MacKinnon’s were father and son, both were executed at Culloden Moor by her cousin, Major James Wolfe as he had been commanded by his superior, General Harley. Elizabeth wonders if this makes her a traitor and could she eventually be executed too? As she is marrying into the Mackinnon family although Lachlan is an innocent child of fourteen and had so much to think about while traveling by carriage, except the carriage came to a sudden halt! Elizabeth finds out it could not move on, due to the snow which brings her to Balthazar Inn to get a room.
This is where things get very interesting, as another wounded man is also arriving at The Balthazar Inn. Not only that, but claiming to be the eldest son of Angus Mackinnon and eldest brother of Lachlan! If he does not want death it looks like he has a new sassenach wife too! Yet can he marry the cousin of his father’s executioner? Now Elizabeth was very relieved, not being forced to marry a child who her Uncle just wants to use. He would never have a chance with this brave and honorable man, for this she was sure. It was her future she was not certain of, but she knows her cousin in some small way planned this for both she and Callum. Another reason she was very grateful, but will Callum Mackinnon ever truly desire her for the rest of their lives? Will Elizabeth have the marriage with love and fidelity she always dreamed about? Read and find out if dreams really do come true?
The Earl in Winter
by Kathryn Le Veque
17 December 1746
Calvine, Scotland
This story center on James de Lohr, Earl of Worcester, Viscount Leominster, Warden of the South Marches, Lord Pembridge and Marston. He is looking for his brother John’s body. However plus also look for a signet , a special family heirloom ring that had been in his family for generations passed down from each Earl. It also show’s how his deceased brother who was the Earl resented his brother for his freedom and from all the responsibilities he did not have. Yes Now James was angry it all falls on him with his death as he now is the new Earl. James also has a studder another reason he hates he is in this position. All his life people to cure even by brutally by his former school masters. He and his brother fought often and did not have a good relationship but his mother wanted her sons body back for burial. Plus as much as they had issues he hopped he was not stripped of his belongings on the battlefield.
Gaira’s family had been of nobility now she and her mother were servants. Gaira had the letters James had written to his brother which she had for years. As she found them when Carrie first created the chamber of sorrows room. She has fallen in love with James with just his beautiful words before she had ever seen him face to face! Now she also has some information to give him peace too. Will she do it and how will James react? Will he be grateful or resentful? Will this give Gaira joy or heartbreak! Plus it is the holidays which is always filled with a bit of magic!
A wonderful magical read from start to finish. I found this story the most emotional. So readers bring your Kleenex as I definitely found this lovely story extremely emotional too! I absolutely loved this fabulous story from start to finish. It is also interconnected with Kerrigan Byrnes story as both which was brilliantly done.
*The Earl of Christmas Past
by Kerrigan Byrne
Winter Solstice, 1891
Vanessa Latimer is a photographer who is living an independent life due to living in exile because of evil nobleman ruined her reputation. A man who broke their engagement for a woman with a larger dowry. He also publicly scandalized her and ruined her. So society firmly shut its door firmly on Vanessa as she has been living her life away in exile ever since.
Vanessa Latimer always considered herself unlucky in life, but did not realize her broken carriage needing repair was going to change her life forever. For good or bad that remains to be seen, but ends up staying in Balthazar’s Inn. The only room available on this snowy solstice night is a room believed to be haunted and the name is Carrie, th original Inn’s daughter who took belongings dead soldiers at Culloden Moor to save for family members to collect in remembrance of loved warriors.
It is believed during Solstice it is when the veil is thin and the dead can visit the human world. They can be heard making sounds, singing, speaking, or performing tasks, like moving humans possessions and objects. On a very rare occurrence these apparitions can even be seen in their former human body! Some can even touch another human for a couple seconds. This is the only time the dead can visit the living. Some believe it is to torment the dead souls to show them the life they are missing.
Vanessa has come to Scotland to see if she can can get a glimpse of Nessie, the LochNess Monster. So she is a believer of the supernatural, ghosts, fairies, angels and all magical beings. So when she meets this ghost who is not a woman at all, but John de Lohr, Earl of Hereford. She is immediately drawn to his intelligence and kind heart but also feels remorse for his regrets not to mention he is absolutely gorgeous from head to toe. In under 24 hours she is madly in love and for John it is even worse. Plus he doesn’t have the heart to tell her this is a bit like a fairy tale. As once the Solstice ends he will be gone too. How will Vanessa cope after that?
As always Kerrigan wrote another phenomenal story that I absolutely loved! She is always one of my go to author’s. I absolutely fell in love with this beautiful story! Again another brilliant read!
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders
Mackenzies/McBrides
by Jennifer Ashley
Kilmorgan Castle 1892
This story start with this reviewer’s favorite chatacter Ian of her MacKenzie series. I have been reading the MacKenzie series since the beginning, which I have loved each and every book so much! Shout out to the author Jennifer Ashley for doing this! So the story starts with Ian Mackenzie basically being this story’s narrator. As he is telling the family history story to his shy,ten year old daughter, Megan. Yet starting the story in Megan’s very special way during the holidays. The hero of this story is Stuart MacKenzie-who is the best friend of Ian’s ancestor, Will Mackenzie. As Will and his brother Alec help many after the Battle of Culloden. They were true Jacobite heroes!
1746 Scotland (eight months after battle of Culloden)
This story centers around the hero, Stuart Cameron, and heroine, Fiona MacDonald, a year after the battle of Culloden. So much has changed and so many traitors Scots betraying their own countrymen. This is something Fiona MacDonald can’t stand yet her own brother Broc is one of those people! So she had left home especially how he threatened Stuart. Plus,she was doing what she could for rebels who had nothing and were hiding in places like caves, with very little food or clothing! Especially since Cumberland had ordered execution for all Jacobite rebels! She was now their “angel of mercy,” providing with what she could and putting her very life in danger too. The truth was the dragoon’s and redcoats paid little attention to the Scottish women, but if caught helping Jacobite rebels she would most likely be executed herself.
Back before the devastation at Culloden Moor, under Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. It was actually the last battle fought on British soil. Back then, Stuart Cameron had done what he thought which was right. This was by joining Bonny Prince Teárlach’s Jacobite army, to put the rightful Stuart’s on the throne and kick the Sassenach’s out of Scotland! Unfortunately the English slaughtered the Jacobite army by such overwhelming odds not only that but Fiona believed her true love was dead as it had been close to a year. She had no idea he was being tortured in an English prison. She had no idea that Alec and Will MacKenzie had rescued him, so he could escape from that English torture chamber called prison!
Now Fiona is the first to see three filthy men come into Balthazar’s Inn in disguise. She recognized one, a well known thief Gair Murray, and his only friend, the one eyed Padruig. He was more of a partner in crime than any true friend. It was the third man she questioned, he was a huge man but she realized he was hiding his true red hair color under soot, and walking bent over not revealing his true height and acting like a servant. Yet once their eyes locked and it revealed the man she thought had been executed by the English was very much alive! Praise God!
Stuart had disappeared for close to a year and she had assumed the English had murdered him by now. So it was quite a shock to see Stuart alive, as he is furious she has not gone to safety in Frances where it is safe for her. Especially with the English going after anyone they thought were jacobite sympathizers. They both were worried for each other, but he too as Laird needed to check on his home, his people, to see if they were safe. Now his life was complicated running with smugglers but he needed to go in disguise to travel across Scotland. It also seemed they blacked mailed him a bit too, plus Padruig wants this mysterious sgian dubh, so until he finds it they pretty much own him.
As for, Fiona now her brother was ill from an injury from Falkirk, that he still blames on Stuart. The only man Fiona wants her brother hates! As for Fiona and Stuart their love just seems to grow even more powerful. Yet they do not even have a chance with blackmailing smugglers, English and Black Watch searching for Scottish rebels? They will hunt Stuart forever as long as he is on the most wanted list! With so much against this couple do they even have a chance? Read and find out.
Jennifer Ashley is a favorite author of mine and never disappoints. I absolutely loved this story. Even though it was only eight chapters. I still got swept away by this amazing story which I absolutely loved!
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas
by Eliza Knight
December 1746
The Scottish Highlands
Laird Thane Shaw was furious for surviving while half his warriors lay dead. All because of the Duke of Cumberland’s machinations and after he won the battle on Culloden Moor! He had annihilated so many Scotsman on the battlefield, yet he ordered every Jacobite rebel executed! They destroyed their harvest or gave their lands away to dragoon’s! People were starving and leaving Alba to the colonies or other nearby countries. As for his twin sister Thea’s death, he blames The Campbell’s and wants revenge! Though they did not kill her directly as it was the English Sassenach who did the deed. He still blames the Campbell’s as the Laird had married her and being one of the strongest clans in the highlands and did not protect her from harm, her precious life.
So since they took his sister Laird Thane Shaw would take theirs and see how they like it. Yes he knew Lady Sarah was an innocent and didn’t deserve this but it couldn’t be helped. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth and sister for her. Plus the money they Campbell’s would pay for their precious sister to be returned would help pay for provisions for his suffering clan.
Meanwhile he only planned to ask for a ransom and not be responsible for another mouth to feed. Except if he was honest she was a lass he dreamed about. What he wasn’t expecting was Lady Sarah to have a bag packed ready to go. Plus he had to remind her he was abducting her and not helping her escape! As she had overheard her brothers were planning on selling her to the highest bidder. Plus to the bloody English so her family had broken her heart and Thane Shaw was her escape! Then due to bad weather they stop at Balthazar Inn and hear about his daughter Carrie’s room and her chamber of secrets. Yet he was already protecting Lady Sarah so he wanted them to pretend to be husband and wife’s names under traitors to the Jacobites. As the clans who came here were the ones that were supporting the bloody Sassenach and betrayed their own people.
Plus the attraction between Lady Sarah and Laird Thane grows what will the end result be? Will her brothers kill Thane or be understanding? Can these star crossed lovers have a happily every after or a shattered heart? Plus will Thane Shaw know the true meaning of Christmas meaning love and forgiveness not hatred and revenge? Read and find out more!
As always another exhilarating Eliza Knight story. I have been reading her stories for over ten years for a reason. As I am alway swept away in her wonderful Scottish adventures with strong female characters, swoon worthy Scots and usually a canine creature or two I just want to cuddle with and love!
The Legend of the Rogue
By Darcy Burke
August 1744-1746
Scotland
The year of Our Lord is one thousand seven hundred and forty-four, in the summer season at the Lammas Fair. This is where Travis Crow, Lord of Sttathclyde, under the name Roy Williams, first notices storyteller, Elspeth Marshall. She is totally mesmerized and instantly attracted to this swoon worthy stranger. He tells her this unique tale of the Sword of Lann Dhearg that is allegedly the identical sword given to one of King Authors knight’s of Camelot and this sword’s name was Dyrnwyn. He enchants her from that start, sweeping her off her feet quickly, as she falls for this swoon worthy man sharing a passionate kiss. They had family duties to fulfill he gave his word he would return but he never did which shattered young Elspeth’s heart. It would be another two years before she saw this man again!
15 December 1746
Scotland
The year of Our Lord is one thousand seven hundred and forty-six In December. In the Culloden battle where his people were crushed, Tavish Crawford, has now lost his beloved families sword called Lann Dhearg. In addition to this problem his heart nearly pops out of his chest when he sees Elspeth Marshall at Balthazar’s Inn. Hoping she won’t remember him as he is now a wanted criminal to the English, a Jacobite sympathizer and rebel, a wanted man! If she says anything he might be taken into custody for execution!
Unfortunately, she does remember him and he gives her her another false name, this time John MacLean. This man denied knowing her showing no recognition, plus he behaved like she was irritating him. So Elspeth felt like an old rag-just used and worthless not worth remembering! Of course Tavish remembered her, but had to behave as an uncaring, cold and callous rogue. As it could mean the end of his life!
He does eventually find Elspeths to apologize and explains his names, how he’s a a Jacobite sympathizer, helping the other hidden surviving rebels. She forgives him, but of course this is after she punched him in the gut! Soon he explains looking for his lost sword. Not realizing both his sword and the woman who now owns his heart are in jeopardy from a secret and dangerous organization also seeking his sword! As this secret organization wants his sword believing it is the thirteenth treasure. His other problem is Elspeth the story teller and writer wants to tell his families history to the world. Something he wants kept private no matter what but he also knows Elspeth life would be forfeit if this organization discovered Elspeth’s story, as this sword could be very dangerous in the wrong hands. To Elspeth so much of this feels like a sting of Tavish’s betrayal more than once he hasn’t been honest with her. Can she ever trust him and give her heart again? Will he ever be to convince the woman he loves he only wants to protect her? Read and find out more in this wonderful story.
My first Darcy Burke that I really enjoyed. It is is filled with adventure, folklore, magic, danger, mystery and love. Another story I highly recommend.
I felt Kathryn Le Veque and Kerrigan Byrne stories were two beautiful stories that are the most interconnected of the analogy, thought I love Crosby, Ashley Knights stories too. Their stories just had a bigger connection besides the Balthazar Inn and the Chamber of Sorrows. I wish there had been a love story for Carrie, as it was my only disappointment. I felt she being the creator of the Chamber of Sorrows deserved a happily ever after too in my opinion. All in all I loved this analogy as each story was brilliantly done! Bravo! Happy Holidays!
I received an advance readers copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
By Tanya Anne Crosby, Kerrigan Byrne, Jennifer Ashley, Eliza Knight, Kathryn Le Veque and Darcy Burke
Release Date: 27/Oct./2020
Reviewed by: Barb Massabrook (of)
1)Tartan Book Reviews
2)Purple Tulip Book Reviews
3)Celtic World of Historical Book Reviews
4)Celtic Barb’s Kilted Book Review Blog
Heat Rating: 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars/Kilts
Each story shows the aftermath of the Rising, the catastrophic Culloden Battle nine months later and is a definitely a heartstring puller. The reader will see how life has changed and how people are coping after the devastating battle at Culloden Moor-especially during the holiday season. Readers will see a connection to a place called Balthazar Inn and the Chamber of Sorrows in each story, including the owner ofthe inn, Balthazar and his daughter Carrie. Carrie created the room Chamber of Sorrows at the Balthazar Inn to honor all the fallen warriors from the dead of both Scottish and English warriors. This was done so thieves and scavengers can’t strip them of their belongings . A shrine for the brave fallen warriors of Culloden. Also a place families are welcome to mourn and the pick up some remembrance of their loved ones too. Some followers of these extraordinary authors might recognize a family or clan name or specific characters in the stories previously and from other solo books of these authors too.
One Knights Stand
by Tanya Anne Crosby
“If you’ll do me the honor of becoming my bride, I shall promise to provide for you to the best of my ability and I will honor and cherish you as a man should honor and cherish his wife”...Callum MacKinnon’s handfasting proposal!
31 December 1746, Scotland
Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe, is a twenty-three year old, English woman, that the Scottish people would call a Sassenach, which is an English outsider. She is traveling from England to Scotland to marry a traitor to the crown, hoping it will prevent her cousin’s execution. Elizabeth is being used as a pawn to perform a type of alliance to get her boy groom to side with the English. The only family member that cares about Elizabeth is her cousin James Wolfe, though at this moment she is seriously now rethinking this!
As Elizabeth is being forced to marry a fifteen year old boy, Lachlan Mackinnon, who is supposedly from a family of Scottish traitors according to the crown. No, Elizabeth does not think of Scotland this way, she understands they were only protecting their lands and country from being stolen! Of course her black guard Uncle feels they can control and turn this young Lachlan Mackinnon to their English way of thinking. Basically so they have a spy or someone on their side in the North. It was all a dirty business, as Elizabeth is shaking her head no! She does not believe family loyalty can be switched or coerced so easily. Especially after his loved ones were basically slaughtered by their English executioners!
However, Elizabeth heard young Lachlan’s senior male Mackinnon relatives were executed nine months ago in Culloden Moor. She also assumes that the family home and lands have been confiscated, which is not uncommon for executed traitors. This of course leaves the women, children, elderly, sick, servants and everyone else remaining in the residence in dire straits for survival. In addition both of the elder MacKinnon’s were father and son, both were executed at Culloden Moor by her cousin, Major James Wolfe as he had been commanded by his superior, General Harley. Elizabeth wonders if this makes her a traitor and could she eventually be executed too? As she is marrying into the Mackinnon family although Lachlan is an innocent child of fourteen and had so much to think about while traveling by carriage, except the carriage came to a sudden halt! Elizabeth finds out it could not move on, due to the snow which brings her to Balthazar Inn to get a room.
This is where things get very interesting, as another wounded man is also arriving at The Balthazar Inn. Not only that, but claiming to be the eldest son of Angus Mackinnon and eldest brother of Lachlan! If he does not want death it looks like he has a new sassenach wife too! Yet can he marry the cousin of his father’s executioner? Now Elizabeth was very relieved, not being forced to marry a child who her Uncle just wants to use. He would never have a chance with this brave and honorable man, for this she was sure. It was her future she was not certain of, but she knows her cousin in some small way planned this for both she and Callum. Another reason she was very grateful, but will Callum Mackinnon ever truly desire her for the rest of their lives? Will Elizabeth have the marriage with love and fidelity she always dreamed about? Read and find out if dreams really do come true?
The Earl in Winter
by Kathryn Le Veque
17 December 1746
Calvine, Scotland
This story center on James de Lohr, Earl of Worcester, Viscount Leominster, Warden of the South Marches, Lord Pembridge and Marston. He is looking for his brother John’s body. However plus also look for a signet , a special family heirloom ring that had been in his family for generations passed down from each Earl. It also show’s how his deceased brother who was the Earl resented his brother for his freedom and from all the responsibilities he did not have. Yes Now James was angry it all falls on him with his death as he now is the new Earl. James also has a studder another reason he hates he is in this position. All his life people to cure even by brutally by his former school masters. He and his brother fought often and did not have a good relationship but his mother wanted her sons body back for burial. Plus as much as they had issues he hopped he was not stripped of his belongings on the battlefield.
Gaira’s family had been of nobility now she and her mother were servants. Gaira had the letters James had written to his brother which she had for years. As she found them when Carrie first created the chamber of sorrows room. She has fallen in love with James with just his beautiful words before she had ever seen him face to face! Now she also has some information to give him peace too. Will she do it and how will James react? Will he be grateful or resentful? Will this give Gaira joy or heartbreak! Plus it is the holidays which is always filled with a bit of magic!
A wonderful magical read from start to finish. I found this story the most emotional. So readers bring your Kleenex as I definitely found this lovely story extremely emotional too! I absolutely loved this fabulous story from start to finish. It is also interconnected with Kerrigan Byrnes story as both which was brilliantly done.
*The Earl of Christmas Past
by Kerrigan Byrne
Winter Solstice, 1891
Vanessa Latimer is a photographer who is living an independent life due to living in exile because of evil nobleman ruined her reputation. A man who broke their engagement for a woman with a larger dowry. He also publicly scandalized her and ruined her. So society firmly shut its door firmly on Vanessa as she has been living her life away in exile ever since.
Vanessa Latimer always considered herself unlucky in life, but did not realize her broken carriage needing repair was going to change her life forever. For good or bad that remains to be seen, but ends up staying in Balthazar’s Inn. The only room available on this snowy solstice night is a room believed to be haunted and the name is Carrie, th original Inn’s daughter who took belongings dead soldiers at Culloden Moor to save for family members to collect in remembrance of loved warriors.
It is believed during Solstice it is when the veil is thin and the dead can visit the human world. They can be heard making sounds, singing, speaking, or performing tasks, like moving humans possessions and objects. On a very rare occurrence these apparitions can even be seen in their former human body! Some can even touch another human for a couple seconds. This is the only time the dead can visit the living. Some believe it is to torment the dead souls to show them the life they are missing.
Vanessa has come to Scotland to see if she can can get a glimpse of Nessie, the LochNess Monster. So she is a believer of the supernatural, ghosts, fairies, angels and all magical beings. So when she meets this ghost who is not a woman at all, but John de Lohr, Earl of Hereford. She is immediately drawn to his intelligence and kind heart but also feels remorse for his regrets not to mention he is absolutely gorgeous from head to toe. In under 24 hours she is madly in love and for John it is even worse. Plus he doesn’t have the heart to tell her this is a bit like a fairy tale. As once the Solstice ends he will be gone too. How will Vanessa cope after that?
As always Kerrigan wrote another phenomenal story that I absolutely loved! She is always one of my go to author’s. I absolutely fell in love with this beautiful story! Again another brilliant read!
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders
Mackenzies/McBrides
by Jennifer Ashley
Kilmorgan Castle 1892
This story start with this reviewer’s favorite chatacter Ian of her MacKenzie series. I have been reading the MacKenzie series since the beginning, which I have loved each and every book so much! Shout out to the author Jennifer Ashley for doing this! So the story starts with Ian Mackenzie basically being this story’s narrator. As he is telling the family history story to his shy,ten year old daughter, Megan. Yet starting the story in Megan’s very special way during the holidays. The hero of this story is Stuart MacKenzie-who is the best friend of Ian’s ancestor, Will Mackenzie. As Will and his brother Alec help many after the Battle of Culloden. They were true Jacobite heroes!
1746 Scotland (eight months after battle of Culloden)
This story centers around the hero, Stuart Cameron, and heroine, Fiona MacDonald, a year after the battle of Culloden. So much has changed and so many traitors Scots betraying their own countrymen. This is something Fiona MacDonald can’t stand yet her own brother Broc is one of those people! So she had left home especially how he threatened Stuart. Plus,she was doing what she could for rebels who had nothing and were hiding in places like caves, with very little food or clothing! Especially since Cumberland had ordered execution for all Jacobite rebels! She was now their “angel of mercy,” providing with what she could and putting her very life in danger too. The truth was the dragoon’s and redcoats paid little attention to the Scottish women, but if caught helping Jacobite rebels she would most likely be executed herself.
Back before the devastation at Culloden Moor, under Prince William Augustus, Duke of Cumberland. It was actually the last battle fought on British soil. Back then, Stuart Cameron had done what he thought which was right. This was by joining Bonny Prince Teárlach’s Jacobite army, to put the rightful Stuart’s on the throne and kick the Sassenach’s out of Scotland! Unfortunately the English slaughtered the Jacobite army by such overwhelming odds not only that but Fiona believed her true love was dead as it had been close to a year. She had no idea he was being tortured in an English prison. She had no idea that Alec and Will MacKenzie had rescued him, so he could escape from that English torture chamber called prison!
Now Fiona is the first to see three filthy men come into Balthazar’s Inn in disguise. She recognized one, a well known thief Gair Murray, and his only friend, the one eyed Padruig. He was more of a partner in crime than any true friend. It was the third man she questioned, he was a huge man but she realized he was hiding his true red hair color under soot, and walking bent over not revealing his true height and acting like a servant. Yet once their eyes locked and it revealed the man she thought had been executed by the English was very much alive! Praise God!
Stuart had disappeared for close to a year and she had assumed the English had murdered him by now. So it was quite a shock to see Stuart alive, as he is furious she has not gone to safety in Frances where it is safe for her. Especially with the English going after anyone they thought were jacobite sympathizers. They both were worried for each other, but he too as Laird needed to check on his home, his people, to see if they were safe. Now his life was complicated running with smugglers but he needed to go in disguise to travel across Scotland. It also seemed they blacked mailed him a bit too, plus Padruig wants this mysterious sgian dubh, so until he finds it they pretty much own him.
As for, Fiona now her brother was ill from an injury from Falkirk, that he still blames on Stuart. The only man Fiona wants her brother hates! As for Fiona and Stuart their love just seems to grow even more powerful. Yet they do not even have a chance with blackmailing smugglers, English and Black Watch searching for Scottish rebels? They will hunt Stuart forever as long as he is on the most wanted list! With so much against this couple do they even have a chance? Read and find out.
Jennifer Ashley is a favorite author of mine and never disappoints. I absolutely loved this story. Even though it was only eight chapters. I still got swept away by this amazing story which I absolutely loved!
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas
by Eliza Knight
December 1746
The Scottish Highlands
Laird Thane Shaw was furious for surviving while half his warriors lay dead. All because of the Duke of Cumberland’s machinations and after he won the battle on Culloden Moor! He had annihilated so many Scotsman on the battlefield, yet he ordered every Jacobite rebel executed! They destroyed their harvest or gave their lands away to dragoon’s! People were starving and leaving Alba to the colonies or other nearby countries. As for his twin sister Thea’s death, he blames The Campbell’s and wants revenge! Though they did not kill her directly as it was the English Sassenach who did the deed. He still blames the Campbell’s as the Laird had married her and being one of the strongest clans in the highlands and did not protect her from harm, her precious life.
So since they took his sister Laird Thane Shaw would take theirs and see how they like it. Yes he knew Lady Sarah was an innocent and didn’t deserve this but it couldn’t be helped. An eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth and sister for her. Plus the money they Campbell’s would pay for their precious sister to be returned would help pay for provisions for his suffering clan.
Meanwhile he only planned to ask for a ransom and not be responsible for another mouth to feed. Except if he was honest she was a lass he dreamed about. What he wasn’t expecting was Lady Sarah to have a bag packed ready to go. Plus he had to remind her he was abducting her and not helping her escape! As she had overheard her brothers were planning on selling her to the highest bidder. Plus to the bloody English so her family had broken her heart and Thane Shaw was her escape! Then due to bad weather they stop at Balthazar Inn and hear about his daughter Carrie’s room and her chamber of secrets. Yet he was already protecting Lady Sarah so he wanted them to pretend to be husband and wife’s names under traitors to the Jacobites. As the clans who came here were the ones that were supporting the bloody Sassenach and betrayed their own people.
Plus the attraction between Lady Sarah and Laird Thane grows what will the end result be? Will her brothers kill Thane or be understanding? Can these star crossed lovers have a happily every after or a shattered heart? Plus will Thane Shaw know the true meaning of Christmas meaning love and forgiveness not hatred and revenge? Read and find out more!
As always another exhilarating Eliza Knight story. I have been reading her stories for over ten years for a reason. As I am alway swept away in her wonderful Scottish adventures with strong female characters, swoon worthy Scots and usually a canine creature or two I just want to cuddle with and love!
The Legend of the Rogue
By Darcy Burke
August 1744-1746
Scotland
The year of Our Lord is one thousand seven hundred and forty-four, in the summer season at the Lammas Fair. This is where Travis Crow, Lord of Sttathclyde, under the name Roy Williams, first notices storyteller, Elspeth Marshall. She is totally mesmerized and instantly attracted to this swoon worthy stranger. He tells her this unique tale of the Sword of Lann Dhearg that is allegedly the identical sword given to one of King Authors knight’s of Camelot and this sword’s name was Dyrnwyn. He enchants her from that start, sweeping her off her feet quickly, as she falls for this swoon worthy man sharing a passionate kiss. They had family duties to fulfill he gave his word he would return but he never did which shattered young Elspeth’s heart. It would be another two years before she saw this man again!
15 December 1746
Scotland
The year of Our Lord is one thousand seven hundred and forty-six In December. In the Culloden battle where his people were crushed, Tavish Crawford, has now lost his beloved families sword called Lann Dhearg. In addition to this problem his heart nearly pops out of his chest when he sees Elspeth Marshall at Balthazar’s Inn. Hoping she won’t remember him as he is now a wanted criminal to the English, a Jacobite sympathizer and rebel, a wanted man! If she says anything he might be taken into custody for execution!
Unfortunately, she does remember him and he gives her her another false name, this time John MacLean. This man denied knowing her showing no recognition, plus he behaved like she was irritating him. So Elspeth felt like an old rag-just used and worthless not worth remembering! Of course Tavish remembered her, but had to behave as an uncaring, cold and callous rogue. As it could mean the end of his life!
He does eventually find Elspeths to apologize and explains his names, how he’s a a Jacobite sympathizer, helping the other hidden surviving rebels. She forgives him, but of course this is after she punched him in the gut! Soon he explains looking for his lost sword. Not realizing both his sword and the woman who now owns his heart are in jeopardy from a secret and dangerous organization also seeking his sword! As this secret organization wants his sword believing it is the thirteenth treasure. His other problem is Elspeth the story teller and writer wants to tell his families history to the world. Something he wants kept private no matter what but he also knows Elspeth life would be forfeit if this organization discovered Elspeth’s story, as this sword could be very dangerous in the wrong hands. To Elspeth so much of this feels like a sting of Tavish’s betrayal more than once he hasn’t been honest with her. Can she ever trust him and give her heart again? Will he ever be to convince the woman he loves he only wants to protect her? Read and find out more in this wonderful story.
My first Darcy Burke that I really enjoyed. It is is filled with adventure, folklore, magic, danger, mystery and love. Another story I highly recommend.
I felt Kathryn Le Veque and Kerrigan Byrne stories were two beautiful stories that are the most interconnected of the analogy, thought I love Crosby, Ashley Knights stories too. Their stories just had a bigger connection besides the Balthazar Inn and the Chamber of Sorrows. I wish there had been a love story for Carrie, as it was my only disappointment. I felt she being the creator of the Chamber of Sorrows deserved a happily ever after too in my opinion. All in all I loved this analogy as each story was brilliantly done! Bravo! Happy Holidays!
I received an advance readers copy from the publisher. I voluntarily agreed to do a fair review and blog through netgalley. All thoughts, ideas and words are my own.
October 9, 2020
Sometimes you just need a quick read. That’s why I love anthologies like this. Not a full length book but just what I need to quench my thirst for historical romance. And what a powerhouse of authors in this anthology! I love them all and plan to read them all but thus far, I’ve only read Darcy Burke’s story. If the rest are this wonderful, I’m in for a treat!
The Legend of a Rogue- Darcy Burke
There’s nothing better than a love story set in a fascinating time period. And who better to write it than Darcy Burke, an author who really knows her way around a happily ever after. She writes true to life characters that stand the test of time. And the love scenes aren’t that bad either.
I adored Elspeth and Tavish. Both had a sense of purpose and inner strength. And a love for a good story. But what happens when that story proves to be true? And one that could be dangerous if shared. I didn’t want this story to end. The sensuality between these two simmered throughout. And I loved how the legend worked its way into the story, adding so much to the intrigue, danger, and passion. If you’re looking for a grand adventure and a sizzling and tender love story, look no further.
The Legend of a Rogue- Darcy Burke
There’s nothing better than a love story set in a fascinating time period. And who better to write it than Darcy Burke, an author who really knows her way around a happily ever after. She writes true to life characters that stand the test of time. And the love scenes aren’t that bad either.
I adored Elspeth and Tavish. Both had a sense of purpose and inner strength. And a love for a good story. But what happens when that story proves to be true? And one that could be dangerous if shared. I didn’t want this story to end. The sensuality between these two simmered throughout. And I loved how the legend worked its way into the story, adding so much to the intrigue, danger, and passion. If you’re looking for a grand adventure and a sizzling and tender love story, look no further.
October 27, 2020
A Very Highland Holiday is a collection of historical romance books. I've only read one book of the collection so that is the only book I can comment on. I may add more to this review at a later date.
The Legend Of A Rogue is a historical romance with supernatural twist by Darcy Burke. Ms. Burke has given readers a well-written book. The characters are fabulous and make this a fun read. Elspeth loves hearing and recording ancient stories. She shares them with the children of the village. She meets Tavish after he listens in on a tale she's telling the children and introduces himself with a fake name. Tavish leaves the next day but says he'll return, but doesn't. Elspeth and Tavish's story is loaded with drama, humor, spice, action and suspense. I loved this story and look forward to my next book by Darcy Burke.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Legend Of A Rogue is a historical romance with supernatural twist by Darcy Burke. Ms. Burke has given readers a well-written book. The characters are fabulous and make this a fun read. Elspeth loves hearing and recording ancient stories. She shares them with the children of the village. She meets Tavish after he listens in on a tale she's telling the children and introduces himself with a fake name. Tavish leaves the next day but says he'll return, but doesn't. Elspeth and Tavish's story is loaded with drama, humor, spice, action and suspense. I loved this story and look forward to my next book by Darcy Burke.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book that I received from Bookfunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 23, 2020
Review courtesy of Romance Junkies
Each story in this anthology takes place in a pastoral Scottish tavern around Christmas. The heroes have been involved in the dreadful Battle of Culloden Moor. I enjoyed each author’s take on the tavern’s owner and his feisty daughter.
It has been some time since I read an anthology or a holiday-themed story. I generally stay away from the former because they are just too short for me. I prefer longer stories but these novellas engaged me from the beginning.
THE EARL OF CHRISTMAS PAST
by Kerrigan Byrne
Vanessa Latimer seeks shelter at a Scottish tavern during a bad winter storm. She accepts the only room available. Johnathan de Lohr is forced to haunt a particular room inside Balthazar’s Inn. He cannot help but be intrigued by his latest roommate. Can Vanessa help release Johnathan’s spirit from the tavern? What other miracle will the two experience?
Johnathan is such a sweetheart. I love how protective he is over Vanessa. He recognizes a wounded soul betrayed by others. Vanessa is the tortured type. I admire how she does not wallow in misery, instead, she finds a silver lining.
THE EARL OF CHRISTMAS PAST is loosely tied with Kerrigan Byrne’s upcoming series, THE GOODE GIRLS. I love how this story and Kathryn Le Veque’s are connected. I will admit, Kerrigan Bryne’s tale is the sole reason I picked up this anthology. I always enjoy her stories.
THE EARL IN WINTER
by Kathryn Le Veque
James de Lohr, Earl of Hereford, intends to collect his late brother’s effects. His journey brings him to a certain tavern during the holiday season. Gaira is the sole grandchild of a disgraced earl. She works as a serving maid to support herself and her mother. Will James find all that he is searching for? Can Gaira help James come to terms with his brother’s passing? Who else will help these two?
James, like his older brother Johnathan, is a sweetheart too. I like the fact that he suffers from a speech problem. It makes him approachable. Gaira is such a likeable heroine. She is perfect for James. I love how she helps the de Lohr brothers reconnect and heal.
Kathryn Le Veque is a new-to-me author. I really like her writing style. I will definitely have to look into her novels.
FIONA AND THE THREE WISE HIGHLANDERS
by Jennifer Ashley
Fiona MacDonald is a laird’s sister. She defies her brother by traveling around Scotland helping Jacobite rebels escape British troops. Stuart Cameron is returning home with the aid of two smugglers. However, his path crosses Fiona’s in a rustic tavern during the holidays. Will Stuart successfully elude the authorities? Will he learn about Fiona’s secret? And can the two find a way to be together?
I admire Fiona’s daring, especially in an age when women had little to no power. She understands the circumstances if she is caught, but that does not stop her. I like how Stuart tries to help his enemy. He could have abandoned Fiona’s brother; instead, he risks much to help.
FIONA AND THE THREE WISE HIGHLANDERS is a part of Jennifer Ashley’s Highlander series, THE MACKENZIES / MCBRIDES. Jennifer Ashley is the other author I am familiar with. I have read and enjoyed many of her paranormal works.
ONE KNIGHT’S STAND
By Tanya Anne Crosby
Lady Elizabeth Wolfe is the niece of an English lord. She agrees to marry the MacKinnon laird to save a Scottish family from complete ruin. However, the weather forces her to stay at a certain tavern. Callum MacKinnon is his clan’s true laird. He decides to stop at Balthazar’s Inn before returning home. Callum learns that his “bride” has rented a room.
Tanya Anne Crosby is another new-to-me author. I have heard of her name. I just never had the chance to read any of her stories.
THE LEGEND OF A ROGUE
By Darcy Burke
Elspeth Marshall is a gifted storyteller. She learns about a certain mythical sword from a mysterious man, who later disappears. Elspeth travels around Scotland collecting unique stories to publish. Tavish Crawford needs to find the sword entrusted to his family. However, he encounters Elspeth again at a Scottish tavern. Can Tavish keep the sword from falling into the wrong hands? Will Elspeth fall victim to an evil secret organization?
THE LEGEND OF A ROGUE is a part of Darcy Burke’s series, THE LEGENDARY ROGUES. This story is one of my favorites in this anthology. It has the right amount of action that kept me reading. Darcy Burke is another new-to-me author. I am keen to look into this particular series when I have the chance.
THE HIGHLANDER WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS
By Eliza Knight
Laird Thane Shaw wants revenge against the Campbells for his sister’s death. However, he never thought it would be so easy. Lady Sarah Campbell is the only sister to the Campbell’s lairds. She refuses to be sold off to the highest bidder to feed her brothers’ greed. Sarah latches onto the opportunity Thane provides. Can Sarah help Thane let go of his need for vengeances? Will he help her escape her brothers for good?
THE HIGHLANDER WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS is a Scottish version of the Christmas tale, HOW THE CRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS. Eliza Knight did a splendid job in the recanting but with a notable twist.
A VERY HIGHLAND HOLIDAY is a wonderful set of tales about people overcoming chaotic times. Each story may take place during Christmas, however, the holiday does not dominate the storylines.
Each story in this anthology takes place in a pastoral Scottish tavern around Christmas. The heroes have been involved in the dreadful Battle of Culloden Moor. I enjoyed each author’s take on the tavern’s owner and his feisty daughter.
It has been some time since I read an anthology or a holiday-themed story. I generally stay away from the former because they are just too short for me. I prefer longer stories but these novellas engaged me from the beginning.
THE EARL OF CHRISTMAS PAST
by Kerrigan Byrne
Vanessa Latimer seeks shelter at a Scottish tavern during a bad winter storm. She accepts the only room available. Johnathan de Lohr is forced to haunt a particular room inside Balthazar’s Inn. He cannot help but be intrigued by his latest roommate. Can Vanessa help release Johnathan’s spirit from the tavern? What other miracle will the two experience?
Johnathan is such a sweetheart. I love how protective he is over Vanessa. He recognizes a wounded soul betrayed by others. Vanessa is the tortured type. I admire how she does not wallow in misery, instead, she finds a silver lining.
THE EARL OF CHRISTMAS PAST is loosely tied with Kerrigan Byrne’s upcoming series, THE GOODE GIRLS. I love how this story and Kathryn Le Veque’s are connected. I will admit, Kerrigan Bryne’s tale is the sole reason I picked up this anthology. I always enjoy her stories.
THE EARL IN WINTER
by Kathryn Le Veque
James de Lohr, Earl of Hereford, intends to collect his late brother’s effects. His journey brings him to a certain tavern during the holiday season. Gaira is the sole grandchild of a disgraced earl. She works as a serving maid to support herself and her mother. Will James find all that he is searching for? Can Gaira help James come to terms with his brother’s passing? Who else will help these two?
James, like his older brother Johnathan, is a sweetheart too. I like the fact that he suffers from a speech problem. It makes him approachable. Gaira is such a likeable heroine. She is perfect for James. I love how she helps the de Lohr brothers reconnect and heal.
Kathryn Le Veque is a new-to-me author. I really like her writing style. I will definitely have to look into her novels.
FIONA AND THE THREE WISE HIGHLANDERS
by Jennifer Ashley
Fiona MacDonald is a laird’s sister. She defies her brother by traveling around Scotland helping Jacobite rebels escape British troops. Stuart Cameron is returning home with the aid of two smugglers. However, his path crosses Fiona’s in a rustic tavern during the holidays. Will Stuart successfully elude the authorities? Will he learn about Fiona’s secret? And can the two find a way to be together?
I admire Fiona’s daring, especially in an age when women had little to no power. She understands the circumstances if she is caught, but that does not stop her. I like how Stuart tries to help his enemy. He could have abandoned Fiona’s brother; instead, he risks much to help.
FIONA AND THE THREE WISE HIGHLANDERS is a part of Jennifer Ashley’s Highlander series, THE MACKENZIES / MCBRIDES. Jennifer Ashley is the other author I am familiar with. I have read and enjoyed many of her paranormal works.
ONE KNIGHT’S STAND
By Tanya Anne Crosby
Lady Elizabeth Wolfe is the niece of an English lord. She agrees to marry the MacKinnon laird to save a Scottish family from complete ruin. However, the weather forces her to stay at a certain tavern. Callum MacKinnon is his clan’s true laird. He decides to stop at Balthazar’s Inn before returning home. Callum learns that his “bride” has rented a room.
Tanya Anne Crosby is another new-to-me author. I have heard of her name. I just never had the chance to read any of her stories.
THE LEGEND OF A ROGUE
By Darcy Burke
Elspeth Marshall is a gifted storyteller. She learns about a certain mythical sword from a mysterious man, who later disappears. Elspeth travels around Scotland collecting unique stories to publish. Tavish Crawford needs to find the sword entrusted to his family. However, he encounters Elspeth again at a Scottish tavern. Can Tavish keep the sword from falling into the wrong hands? Will Elspeth fall victim to an evil secret organization?
THE LEGEND OF A ROGUE is a part of Darcy Burke’s series, THE LEGENDARY ROGUES. This story is one of my favorites in this anthology. It has the right amount of action that kept me reading. Darcy Burke is another new-to-me author. I am keen to look into this particular series when I have the chance.
THE HIGHLANDER WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS
By Eliza Knight
Laird Thane Shaw wants revenge against the Campbells for his sister’s death. However, he never thought it would be so easy. Lady Sarah Campbell is the only sister to the Campbell’s lairds. She refuses to be sold off to the highest bidder to feed her brothers’ greed. Sarah latches onto the opportunity Thane provides. Can Sarah help Thane let go of his need for vengeances? Will he help her escape her brothers for good?
THE HIGHLANDER WHO STOLE CHRISTMAS is a Scottish version of the Christmas tale, HOW THE CRINCH STOLE CHRISTMAS. Eliza Knight did a splendid job in the recanting but with a notable twist.
A VERY HIGHLAND HOLIDAY is a wonderful set of tales about people overcoming chaotic times. Each story may take place during Christmas, however, the holiday does not dominate the storylines.
October 12, 2020
Each story has this in common....the Balthazar Inn and the Chamber of Sorrow. I received an ARC of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque
I was ugly crying by the end of this story, Kathryn Le Veque has a tendency to do this to me every time I read one of her stories! lol I adored this story, so much heart and emotion was put into it. This is all about the love between brothers, a guardian angel and finding your soul mate when you least expect it.
Winter Solstice by Kerrigan Byrne
Omigosh, this was a story unlike any other I have read and I absolutely loved it! Is it possible to fall in love with a ghost? Oh yes, it is!! When Vanessa finds herself snowed in at the Balthazar Inn, she ends up sharing her room with a ghost, that of Johnathan de Lohr, killed in the Battle of Culloden. What happens is nothing short of a miracle, the ending will forever be etched in my heart.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
An exciting and wonderful tale of two lovers reuniting during the dangerous aftermath of the Battle of Culloden. Stuart and Fiona have been separated from each other for a year and she thought he had been killed in the battle. He was in fact, taken prisoner and endured torture while in captivity. Having escaped finally, he makes his way home with the help of two hired men and unexpectedly comes face to face with Fiona at the Balthazar Inn. Danger surrounds them and emotions are at an all time high.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
I really enjoyed Callum and Elizabeth’s story, I loved both their characters. Callum, presumed dead in the Battle of Culloden, is on his way home when he stops at the Balthazar Inn and finds out his “intended” is there too! I had to smile at all the confusion but soon everything is sorted out and the instant attraction takes over. I loved the bath scene😊
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
Elspeth loves to write stories of legends that people tell her about and is now on the hunt for a particular legend...a flaming sword, Lann Dhearg, that was last seen in the Battle of Culloden. She meets the mysterious Tavish who goes under different names and who is also looking for the same sword. Quite the adventure follows with plenty of danger surrounding them. Amidst all of that, love blossoms and passions flare.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Thane only has one thing in mind and that is revenge for the death of his beloved twin sister. He plans on abducting the enemies’ sister but things don’t quite go according to plan. Not only does she willingly come with him, Sarah soon has his heart and love. Together they right the wrong that’s been done.
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque
I was ugly crying by the end of this story, Kathryn Le Veque has a tendency to do this to me every time I read one of her stories! lol I adored this story, so much heart and emotion was put into it. This is all about the love between brothers, a guardian angel and finding your soul mate when you least expect it.
Winter Solstice by Kerrigan Byrne
Omigosh, this was a story unlike any other I have read and I absolutely loved it! Is it possible to fall in love with a ghost? Oh yes, it is!! When Vanessa finds herself snowed in at the Balthazar Inn, she ends up sharing her room with a ghost, that of Johnathan de Lohr, killed in the Battle of Culloden. What happens is nothing short of a miracle, the ending will forever be etched in my heart.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
An exciting and wonderful tale of two lovers reuniting during the dangerous aftermath of the Battle of Culloden. Stuart and Fiona have been separated from each other for a year and she thought he had been killed in the battle. He was in fact, taken prisoner and endured torture while in captivity. Having escaped finally, he makes his way home with the help of two hired men and unexpectedly comes face to face with Fiona at the Balthazar Inn. Danger surrounds them and emotions are at an all time high.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
I really enjoyed Callum and Elizabeth’s story, I loved both their characters. Callum, presumed dead in the Battle of Culloden, is on his way home when he stops at the Balthazar Inn and finds out his “intended” is there too! I had to smile at all the confusion but soon everything is sorted out and the instant attraction takes over. I loved the bath scene😊
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke
Elspeth loves to write stories of legends that people tell her about and is now on the hunt for a particular legend...a flaming sword, Lann Dhearg, that was last seen in the Battle of Culloden. She meets the mysterious Tavish who goes under different names and who is also looking for the same sword. Quite the adventure follows with plenty of danger surrounding them. Amidst all of that, love blossoms and passions flare.
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
Thoroughly enjoyed this story. Thane only has one thing in mind and that is revenge for the death of his beloved twin sister. He plans on abducting the enemies’ sister but things don’t quite go according to plan. Not only does she willingly come with him, Sarah soon has his heart and love. Together they right the wrong that’s been done.
October 24, 2020
The Earl in Winter by Kathryn Le Veque
When James de Lohr heads into the wilds of Scotland to discover what happened to his brother at the Battle of Culloden, his stay at Bathazar’s Tavern has an unexpected twist. On a night when angels walk the earth, James comes face to face with his very own guardian angel.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
Fiona MacDonald is overjoyed to see Stuart Cameron alive and well after his imprisonment by the English, but her worries are not over. Stuart Cameron owes his safety to a pair of smugglers who have come to collect on their debt, and Stuart will need her help to win himself free.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
Bound for a marriage she hopes will save her cousin from the gibbet, Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe finds herself en route to Scotland to marry the younger son of a known traitor to the Crown. Fate intervenes when, on the way, she checks into an inn and registers as the “MacKinnon's bride.” Presumed dead at Culloden, Callum MacKinnon, stops by the inn as well, intending to clean up before his return as the prodigal son. Imagine his surprise to discover his “bride to be” has already procured a room. And more—the feisty sassenach everything he never realized he desired.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne
A solstice blizzard drives Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer, to a crowded Highland Inn where the only available room is haunted by the ghost of a fallen warrior unwilling to give up his side of the bed.
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke 5 Stars
Elspeth Marshall a storyteller met Roy Williams two years ago. Caught in a snowstorm Elspeth & her aunt take shelter in an inn where she sees Roy but he says his name is John McLean but he then reveals he's Tavish Crawford. A well written lovely story with strong characters. The search is on for a misplaced magical sword but others are also searching & will stop at nothing to find it. An engrossing read which I read in a sitting
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
For eight months, Thane Shaw has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
Six well written novellas centring on Bathazar’s Inn
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
When James de Lohr heads into the wilds of Scotland to discover what happened to his brother at the Battle of Culloden, his stay at Bathazar’s Tavern has an unexpected twist. On a night when angels walk the earth, James comes face to face with his very own guardian angel.
Fiona and the Three Wise Highlanders by Jennifer Ashley
Fiona MacDonald is overjoyed to see Stuart Cameron alive and well after his imprisonment by the English, but her worries are not over. Stuart Cameron owes his safety to a pair of smugglers who have come to collect on their debt, and Stuart will need her help to win himself free.
One Knight’s Stand by Tanya Anne Crosby
Bound for a marriage she hopes will save her cousin from the gibbet, Lady Elizabeth Louise Wolfe finds herself en route to Scotland to marry the younger son of a known traitor to the Crown. Fate intervenes when, on the way, she checks into an inn and registers as the “MacKinnon's bride.” Presumed dead at Culloden, Callum MacKinnon, stops by the inn as well, intending to clean up before his return as the prodigal son. Imagine his surprise to discover his “bride to be” has already procured a room. And more—the feisty sassenach everything he never realized he desired.
The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Bryne
A solstice blizzard drives Victorian photographer, Vanessa Latimer, to a crowded Highland Inn where the only available room is haunted by the ghost of a fallen warrior unwilling to give up his side of the bed.
The Legend of a Rogue by Darcy Burke 5 Stars
Elspeth Marshall a storyteller met Roy Williams two years ago. Caught in a snowstorm Elspeth & her aunt take shelter in an inn where she sees Roy but he says his name is John McLean but he then reveals he's Tavish Crawford. A well written lovely story with strong characters. The search is on for a misplaced magical sword but others are also searching & will stop at nothing to find it. An engrossing read which I read in a sitting
The Highlander Who Stole Christmas by Eliza Knight
For eight months, Thane Shaw has patiently waited to enact his revenge against the Campbells, and finally he can’t resist the opportunity that’s presented itself: stealing their most precious treasure for his own—Lady Sarah.
Six well written novellas centring on Bathazar’s Inn
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
October 27, 2020
I received an ARC of this book to read through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. A Very Highland Holiday is an anthology of six novellas by Kathryn Le Veque, Jennifer Ashley, Tanya Anne Crosby, Kerrigan Byrne, Eliza Knight and Darcy Burke. All of the stories except for one take place in 1746, eight months after Culloden, and all are centred at Balthazar’s Inn, which, although not close to the battlefield, has become a repository for weapons and personal items that were left on the site of the battle. If you are expecting heartwarming Christmas stories this is not your book, as firstly Christmas was not being openly celebrated in Scotland at the time, British Soldiers were still hunting down and executing suspected Jacobite sympathizers, and times were hard, families torn apart, loved ones lost. It does have stories with a Guardian Angel, a hot ghost, a Mackenzie family story, an arranged marriage, a legendary magical treasure, and a revenge plot that turns into an HEA. I enjoyed reading the stories but as is often the case found that the novella format was too short to really explore the stories being told.
Steam Level: Medium. Publishing Date: October 27, 2020. #AVeryHighlandHoliday #KathrynLeVeque, #JenniferAshley #TanyaAnneCrosby #KerriganByrne #ElizaKnight #DarcyBurke #HistoricalRomance #RomanceAnthology #RomanceNovellas #DragonBladePublishing #NetGalley
Steam Level: Medium. Publishing Date: October 27, 2020. #AVeryHighlandHoliday #KathrynLeVeque, #JenniferAshley #TanyaAnneCrosby #KerriganByrne #ElizaKnight #DarcyBurke #HistoricalRomance #RomanceAnthology #RomanceNovellas #DragonBladePublishing #NetGalley
November 23, 2020
Review for The Earl of Christmas Past by Kerrigan Byrne:
Stranded in the middle of the wilds of the Scottish Highlands during a blizzard, Vanessa Latimer is half frozen and agrees to stay in the only offered room at the inn…one that just happens to be haunted…
Johnathan de Lohr, once a decorated soldier and earl, lost his life in the battle of Culloden. After over a hundred years, he is still at a loss how his spirit became trapped in an inn he never visited. With the holiday solstice, Johnathan once again awakens, but this time there is a beautiful woman in the room…one that may be the very woman he’s waited for his entire existence…
Vanessa and Johnathan are soulmates that sadly didn’t have a chance to discover each other in one life…but perhaps a Christmas miracle will allow true love to find a way…
Kerrigan Byrne is on my auto read list! This holiday short was so whimsically romantic and verra smexxy that I immediately started reading it over when I got to The End. Loved and highly recommend!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this story that I received via the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **
Stranded in the middle of the wilds of the Scottish Highlands during a blizzard, Vanessa Latimer is half frozen and agrees to stay in the only offered room at the inn…one that just happens to be haunted…
Johnathan de Lohr, once a decorated soldier and earl, lost his life in the battle of Culloden. After over a hundred years, he is still at a loss how his spirit became trapped in an inn he never visited. With the holiday solstice, Johnathan once again awakens, but this time there is a beautiful woman in the room…one that may be the very woman he’s waited for his entire existence…
Vanessa and Johnathan are soulmates that sadly didn’t have a chance to discover each other in one life…but perhaps a Christmas miracle will allow true love to find a way…
Kerrigan Byrne is on my auto read list! This holiday short was so whimsically romantic and verra smexxy that I immediately started reading it over when I got to The End. Loved and highly recommend!
**I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this story that I received via the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own. **
December 6, 2020
A Very Highland Holiday
**The Earl in Winter
Kathryn Le Veque
5*
James and Gaira, you will need tissues! I definitely need to read more Kathryn Le Veque‘w books. So good!
**The Earl of Christmas Past
Kerrigan Byrne
5*+
I am not a ghost romance fan but this story was just fabulous! I was swept away by the characters, Vanessa and Johnathan!
I laugh and cried so make sure you have tissues at hand.
I wish I could give it more then 5*.
**Fiona and the Three Wise Highlander
Jennifer Ashley
5*
What can I say, another fabulous story from Jennifer Ashley! I love everything about the Mackenzie’s and this is a related story to their series. Fiona and Stuart are good highland people who find each other again a year after the bloody Culloden war. With danger all around they venture across the Highlands to Fiona’s home to seek a treasure that will save Stuart Cameron.
**One Knights Stand
Tanya Anne Crosby
4*
Not as good as the rest of the stories but still worth reading.
Elizabeth a bride meant to bring respect to a fallen family. Betrothed to the eldest a mire boy only to find Callum, true eldest back from the dead. A touching story of sadness and rebirth.
**The Earl in Winter
Kathryn Le Veque
5*
James and Gaira, you will need tissues! I definitely need to read more Kathryn Le Veque‘w books. So good!
**The Earl of Christmas Past
Kerrigan Byrne
5*+
I am not a ghost romance fan but this story was just fabulous! I was swept away by the characters, Vanessa and Johnathan!
I laugh and cried so make sure you have tissues at hand.
I wish I could give it more then 5*.
**Fiona and the Three Wise Highlander
Jennifer Ashley
5*
What can I say, another fabulous story from Jennifer Ashley! I love everything about the Mackenzie’s and this is a related story to their series. Fiona and Stuart are good highland people who find each other again a year after the bloody Culloden war. With danger all around they venture across the Highlands to Fiona’s home to seek a treasure that will save Stuart Cameron.
**One Knights Stand
Tanya Anne Crosby
4*
Not as good as the rest of the stories but still worth reading.
Elizabeth a bride meant to bring respect to a fallen family. Betrothed to the eldest a mire boy only to find Callum, true eldest back from the dead. A touching story of sadness and rebirth.
October 11, 2020
The Legend of a Rogue, by Darcy Burke is a great read. Thank you Darcy for contributing this beautifully written romance read to A Very Highland Christmas. I was at the edge of me seat while reading this short story. The writing is great all the way through. When you get to the action scenes, it’s like watching an action movie in your mind.
The step by step description of what everyone was doing, awesome. I was so excited, that I picked my speed in reading, because I wanted to know what would happen next. The plot of the story is great. I like the suspense, the drama, the mystery and the romance. Teaming Tavish and Elspeth together in search of a legendary sword is certainly a different twist.
The superb writing had me turning each page with the relief of reading a good story. I like that the book had a strong leading lady character. Elspeth is a wonderful partner for the strong handsome Rouge Tavish. Elspeth with her mighty pen and paper partners with Tavish on their hunt for a legendary sword. Through their search, they fight armed bandits who will stop at nothing to find this relic.
While Tavish races to find the sword he makes the hard decision to bury it the past. Tavish and Elspeth love grows for each other along the way. I recommend this book.
The step by step description of what everyone was doing, awesome. I was so excited, that I picked my speed in reading, because I wanted to know what would happen next. The plot of the story is great. I like the suspense, the drama, the mystery and the romance. Teaming Tavish and Elspeth together in search of a legendary sword is certainly a different twist.
The superb writing had me turning each page with the relief of reading a good story. I like that the book had a strong leading lady character. Elspeth is a wonderful partner for the strong handsome Rouge Tavish. Elspeth with her mighty pen and paper partners with Tavish on their hunt for a legendary sword. Through their search, they fight armed bandits who will stop at nothing to find this relic.
While Tavish races to find the sword he makes the hard decision to bury it the past. Tavish and Elspeth love grows for each other along the way. I recommend this book.
October 29, 2020
The legend of a rogue 4*
Elspeth Marshall was a story teller but also a collector of tales. Whilst telling one of her story she meets Roy Williams. They feel an instant attraction but he is moving further north. When they meet again, Elspeth finds there is more to Roy than she first thought. Elspeth is a strong woman and is not afraid to go after what she wants. There are a number of secrets to unravel, some very dangerous events and passionate moments. This was an entertaining read.
I like the concept of all the stories having a connection to an inn on a Scottish village and I look forward to reading the rest of the stories.
Elspeth Marshall was a story teller but also a collector of tales. Whilst telling one of her story she meets Roy Williams. They feel an instant attraction but he is moving further north. When they meet again, Elspeth finds there is more to Roy than she first thought. Elspeth is a strong woman and is not afraid to go after what she wants. There are a number of secrets to unravel, some very dangerous events and passionate moments. This was an entertaining read.
I like the concept of all the stories having a connection to an inn on a Scottish village and I look forward to reading the rest of the stories.
December 14, 2020
I’ve read all of the stories except The legand of a rogue (I tried reading it and couldn’t because I didn’t understand what where they referring to most of the time)
Both stories written by Kerrigan Byrne and Jennifer Ashley are 4.5 stars ✨ I loved them 😍
As for the other three stories they are 2-2.5 stars
Both stories written by Kerrigan Byrne and Jennifer Ashley are 4.5 stars ✨ I loved them 😍
As for the other three stories they are 2-2.5 stars
October 17, 2020
This is a great collection of Christmas short stories. They are all set in the same area of the Highlands of Scotland. I enjoyed all of these stories.
October 31, 2020
A soft 4 and a mixed bag. Pretty good group of stories but there were two dnf's. Probably more my personal taste then any fault of the writer.
The H in the Kerrigan Byrne story was a ghost. The h was not. I just can't buy into this trope. Though I never met one personally I can't see the attraction to a man that's been dead over 50 years. Sorry but I have my standards.
The Darcy Burke story lost me in the first chapter. It was centered around around a fairy tale that had two many characters with odd names I neither liked or remembered. Welsh I think. Again . Not my cup of tea.
However all the stories were well written and if mixed relationship between alive and dead people or fairy tale stories about magic swords are your thing it may be worth 5 stars to you.
The H in the Kerrigan Byrne story was a ghost. The h was not. I just can't buy into this trope. Though I never met one personally I can't see the attraction to a man that's been dead over 50 years. Sorry but I have my standards.
The Darcy Burke story lost me in the first chapter. It was centered around around a fairy tale that had two many characters with odd names I neither liked or remembered. Welsh I think. Again . Not my cup of tea.
However all the stories were well written and if mixed relationship between alive and dead people or fairy tale stories about magic swords are your thing it may be worth 5 stars to you.
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