Book Review: Highland Wolf (Murray Clan) by Hannah Howell

Highland Wolf is the fifteenth book in the Murray Clan series by Hannah Howell. While reading this books as a series can give readers some early understanding of the characters and relationships, each book can stand well on its own. I have read several books from the series, but far from all of them.

Annora MacKay senses a disturbing evil in Dunncraig Keep, the estate acquired by her cousin, a cruel and ruthless man. Only her affection for the tiny girl he claims is his daughter stops her from fleeing. Then a mysterious woodcarver arrives at the castle, and she cannot stop thinking about him. James Drummond, once a laird, now an outcast, wants what was stolen from him; his good name, his lands, and his child. His disguise for getting into Dunncraig is step one of his plan, but the enticing raven-haired woman who cares for his daughter is an unwelcome surprise. For he has come seeking justice, not love.

Highland Wolf is an entertaining read. I liked Annora's character, she had a nice mixture of strong and sweet and made good choices. I liked James as well, although I feel like I was less connected with him than Annora. He was strong but compassionate, and like most men in the Murray clan throughout the series, it is he acceptance and care for others that gave him the tools he needed to come out on top. I thought the intrigue and danger was well done, although some moments did feel a little over the top. I liked the growth of relationship between Annora and James. Even though there was instant attraction, both tried to be smart about the danger involved in forging any kind of relationship. I also liked how much of a role little Meggie had in the story, and how important she was to the major players. 

Highland Wolf is exactly what fans of the author and series will be looking for. There is danger, love, and a touch of something special in the characters. Not the best highland historical, but an enjoyable read with plenty of action and emotion. 

Book Review: The Highlander is All That (Untamed Highlanders) by Sabrina York

The Highlander is All That is the fourth book in the Untamed Highlanders series by Sabrina York. I have read the third book in the series, but not the others. While reading the previous book(s) does give some insight into a few characters, it is not necessary to understand or enjoy this book.

Elizabeth St. Claire has always been hard to please. Dreaming solely of Highlander men her whole life, no prancing London Lord can stand a chance at winning her heart, but perhaps a Scotsman can. Elizabeth watches intrigued as the Highlander of her dreams, a Scotsman named Hamish Robb, arrives to oversee her season at the behest of her cousin, the Duke of Caithness. Elizabeth doesn’t hide her feelings for the striking Scot. But Hamish, determined to obey his order to protect the St. Claire sisters, steadfastly rejects her every seducing lure. Believing that the debutante Elizabeth deserves a better, wealthier man, Hamish continues to turn away from her affection, even though he doesn’t exactly want to. Can this Highlander Scot resist the tempting seductress’ attempts to win his heart?

The Highlander is All That is a historical romance that exceeded my expectations in some ways. I loved Elizabeth's character- she is not interested in the lords that come courting, and the one that has his sights set on her most ardently literally makes her ill. That small detail made me smile, and a little sympathetic because the smell of several perfumes and other things have the same affect on me. I like that Hamish and Ranald are determined to do the right thing by the sisters, despite their feelings, and that the ladies are equally as stubborn. I enjoyed the banter between our main couple, and other important characters. I liked that there was some humor, some danger, and lots of great characters and development. I love that the story let all four St. Claire sisters; Anne, Elizabeth, Victoria, and Mary find love in unconventional but happy ways and outcomes. There is a little something for everyone here, and I would hate to ruin any of the surprises or adventure by giving too much away.

The Highlander is All That is a book that has many things going on, but never so much that the story gets lost. Every character and story thread gets its fair share and resolution. Make sure you pick this up when you have plenty of uninterrupted time to enjoy it, because you are not going to want to put it down.

Book Review: The Devil of Dunakin Castle (Highland Isles) by Heather McCollum

The Devil of Dunakin Castle by Heather McCollum is the fourth book in the Highland Isles series. I have not read the previous books, but after finishing this book I would like to. I was able to fully enjoy the read without the prior knowledge, although fans of the series will have a better understanding of some of the characters.

Englishwoman, Grace Ellington, has made a home in Scotland, but to escape from the meddling people around her who seem to think she needs to wed right away—because women need saving, right? —she volunteers to journey north to aid a friend in childbirth. Keir MacKinnon, the younger brother of the MacKinnon clan chief, has been raised to strike fear in people, on and off the battlefield. Trained to uphold MacKinnon law, he has hardened into a lethal warrior. Caught in a Highland blizzard with the feisty Grace, Keir realizes the beautiful woman who saved him can also save his nephew’s life.Sparks fly when he takes her against her will to his home, and Grace’s courage is put to the ultimate test. Is Keir MacKinnon the passionate, kind man she saved in the Highland blizzard, or is he truly the cruel executioner who seeks to solve all issues by the sword?

The Devil of Dunakin Castle is a book with characters that really get under your skin. Grace is tired of being treated like she could break at any given moment, even if she is a little accident prone. She takes advantage of an opportunity to travel and act as a healer, but things never seem to go as planned for her. Keir is in search of a healer to save his nephew, but his reputation as the Devil of Dunakin strikes fear into most people, and things are not really working out for him either. Together they find their way, and end up struggling with trust and reputations as new challenges keep rising in their paths. I love the way they both need to come to terms with their own fallibility and learn to trust each other. I think that Grave had the most influence on others and I loved seeing her take charge of the healing and more subtle relationship changes. I felt for her, and watching her try to get through to Keir and his family was heart wrenching. I was unable to put the book down, and am very eager to read more of this series. The writing style and characters are captivating and still have not get go of my imagination, I want more!

The Devil of Dunakin Castle is an engaging and heart wrenching read. The characters are extremely well written and they stayed with me well after I moved on to the next book. I am about to go hunt down the three previous books and get to reading.

Book Review: The Striker by Monica McCarty

The Striker is the tenth book in the Highland Guard series by Monica McCarty. This could be read as a stand alone, but when read as part of the larger series there is a greater knowledge of the history and character relations.

Six years ago, Eoin "Striker” MacLean endured the greatest betrayal of his life, a disaster that led Robert the Bruce to a crushing defeat and left Eoin without the spirited woman who ruled his heart. Eoin knew that falling in love with his sworn enemy’s daughter was risky, dividing him between a possessive desire for beautiful Margaret MacDowell and an undying loyalty to his king. He promised Bruce that he would keep his fiery bride in the dark about the elite Highland Guard, but he could not predict the dire consequences his secret would have on his young marriage. Nor could he foresee how surrendering to temptation could cripple Bruce’s cause, forcing Eoin to blame his wife and himself for trusting her. Now, as Bruce prepares to challenge the resistance’s remaining strongholds, Eoin finally has his chance for revenge against the woman he once loved so fiercely and her entire clan. But when ferociously independent Margaret reveals a surprise that unites her with Eoin, neither of them will let their love go down without a fight.

The Striker is a solid addition to the Highland Guard series. It is close to the end, and feels a bit out of the action to me, despite how interwoven it really is with the flash backs and roles both Eoin and Maggie play in the larger story. I liked the characters for the most part, but felt that Eoin fell into the trap of trusting gossip and others over his own gut far too often. I sympathized with Maggie regularly, the desire for freedom and love of being herself but having to deal with others that judge on appearances alone. I also got frustrated with both of them, because as usual trust and actual conversations would have solved many problems before they became so overwhelming. I enjoyed that it was a story about second (and third and forth) chances and how love sometimes can withstand more than it really ought. It was a wild, emotional ride, and will definitely speak to some fans of McCarty more than others. It was not my favorite from the series, but I did not dislike it either.

The Striker is exactly what I expect from McCarty. The characters are wonderfully flawed but strong, the history is well researched and the research is explained at the end of the book. There are trust issues, betrayal, love, and danger with a happy ever after to wrap things up nicely. If you have enjoyed this series, then you will enjoy this book. If you like well researched historical romance wrapped in a plaid, you will enjoy this book.

Book Review: So I Married a Highlander by Kate McKinley

So I Married a Highlander is the second book in the What Happens In Scotland series by Kate McKinley. I did not read the first book in the series, but while it might have given me more insight on the characters, I still felt like I could fully enjoy tale despite the lack. 

Lady Evelyn Alexander is attempting to elope when everything goes wrong, and she somehow wakes up chained to the tall, gruff Highlander she somehow married. Her original fiancé has mysteriously gone missing and the threat of scandal is hot on their heel. Alec McAllister has no use for a wife, but when he wakes up entwined with the lovely and spirited Evelyn, he’s willing to reconsider. He’ll help her find her fiancé, but when the passions ignite between them, it’s only a matter of time before the Highlander claims what’s his.

So I Married a Highlander is a quick and fairly steamy read. Evelyn and Alec are interesting characters, that we do get a little bit of a glimpse into through the book. Their is a definite bit of insta-lust here, and some bits of plot that make some things a little too easy and are never really explained. i did like the bits of Alec that we got to see, the past that made him who he is, and the little bits of understanding as too why Evelyn is a bit weary of bad weather and getting sick. However, I felt like the book was light on character development and plot, and more focused on the physical attraction between the pair. I felt like I was reading a novella or short story that needed to find plot twists and solutions more quickly than the characters and readers are quite prepared for. I really enjoyed the opening and had fairly high hopes. What was included was good, I just expect more.

So I Married a Highlander is good for readers looking for a quick, steamy read. It would be a good weekend read, or read to fill the time while waiting for another book to become available. 

Book Review: Daniel's True Desire by Grace Burrowes

Daniel's True Desire is the second book in the True Gentlemen series by Grace Burrowes. Each of these books can stand on their own, but reading them in order does give a better understanding of the cast of characters. 

Daniel Banks is a man of the cloth whose vocation is the last comfort he has left–and even his churchman’s collar is beginning to feel like a noose. In an attempt to start his life over, Daniel accepts the post of vicar in Haddondale, a position supported by the Earl of Haddonfield. There Daniel meets Lady Kirsten Haddonfield, to whom life has also dealt multiple unkind blows. Daniel’s interest is piqued by Kirsten’s unsentimental attitude toward her misfortunes, and by the kind-heartedness the lady keeps well hidden. Kirsten is much taken with Mr. Banks and his genuine compassion for others, despite his own troubles. When Providence intervenes, and Daniel and Kirsten can become engaged, their happiness seems complete, although every garden has at least one nasty, sly, determined serpent. 

Daniel's True Desire is a story that is very much about equally wounded hearts and good natured individuals finding each other and helping each other heal. Daniel has not had a perfect life, and despite being a man of the cloth has many secrets and a failed marriage and child he loves completely. Everything is very complicated, but Daniel is more worried about the well being of others than anything for himself. Kirsten has have zero luck in love, and is content to help her family and live her life as it stands. Neither is looking for love, and as usually that is when love strikes hardest. I liked both characters, but at times they were both almost too perfect to believe. Thankfully, they each had their moments that showed their flaws and humanity they kept them from staying too perfect. I did not love this book as much as I had hoped, but I still greatly enjoyed it and continue to look forward to Burrowes' next book.

Daniel's True Desire is  a solid follow up to Tremaines True Love.  I do not think it was quite as good as the first book in the series, but it was still an entertaining read. Fans of the author will definitely want to read the book, and anyone that enjoyed the first book in this series will enjoy this one as well.

Book Review: The Perfect Bargain by Jessa McAdams

The Perfect Bargain is a contemporary highland romance by Jessa McAdams. As if being newly single isn't brutal enough, Sloane Chatfield's friends are constantly setting her up. When Sloane insists she's waiting for a certain sexy fictional Highlander to come along, her friends surprise her with a trip to Scotland to find her a new boyfriend. If she can find a Highland hunk to "break her heart" before her friends arrive she might be able to have some peace. Galen Buchanan is struggling to keep the family pub afloat. He is running out of money, and now there's an opinionated American lass parked at his best table, driving him mad. When Sloane asks Galen to be her pretend Highland boyfriend, and offers him enough money to save the pub. It's only for a few days, he figures. What's the worst that could happen?

The Perfect Bargain is a fun romance that take a woman that is more than a little disappointed in her former fiancee, and looking to run from her problems, and her interfering friends for awhile. She has a plan, but when it goes astray her back up plan includes the hunky bar owner with some serious financial issues. Nothing could go wrong, right? I liked that Galen and Sloane bantered back and forth, I love a couple that is comfortable enough with themselves and each other that they can bicker. I also liked that while Sloane is wealthy, she works hard and does not look down on those that do not have things as good as she does, in fact her work is all about charities and helping others. Galen might love the bar, but his reason for running it is more about family and doing what he thinks is right rather than the bar itself. The inclusion of the tiny village, Galen's family, and Sloane's group adds some fun characters and interesting conflicts that occasionally had me cringing or looking away in sympathy for the characters. I think the characters really made the book.

The Perfect Bargain is a fun and entertaining read. I enjoyed the characters and their interaction. It was a great weekend read, one that I pretty much inhaled in a day.

Early Book Review: The Highlander's Bride by Amanda Forester

The Highlander's Bride is the first book in the Highland Trouble series by Amanda Forester. It is currently scheduled for release on September 1 2015. After years of fighting in France, Sir Gavin Patrick longs for his Scottish home and for an easier life off the battlefield. However, laden with a massive treasure to transport and Lady Marie Colette, a sharp-tongued French heiress, Gavin realizes that the real battle is only beginning. Colette expects a painless trip as Gavin transports her to her Highland fiancé, but their relationship takes an unexpected turn and more complication arrive at every turn.

The Highlander's Bride is a story of characters that are complicated and more than they seem. Colette has been trained to conceal her emotions and to be the perfect lady. She wants nothing more than to serve her people and to taste freedom. She is not thrilled with journeying to a foreign land to marry an older stranger, but knowing her family and people will be safer with her playing her part as a pawn makes her determined to go through with it. However, she does not want to leave her inheritance from her mother behind. Gavin is a practical man, and the amount of luggage Colette brings with her leaves the crew in danger of thieves and the English soldiers that are causing most of the trouble in the region. Adding an injured baby and a group of orphans to the mix, as well as danger at every turn, make the long journey from France to Scotland even more challenging. The attraction between the stoic Colette and the pragmatic but chivalrous Gavin is constant and they struggle against it, and themselves, while trying to be the best people they can. There is plenty of prayer and mention of doing the right thing, but it is true to character so it does not stand out as an awkward addition to the story like it often does in some stories. I fully expected some of the twists and turns, but they were so well done that I did not care. I fell in love with Colette and the orphans, and thought that Gavin was pretty much the perfect guy, almost too perfect.

The Highlander's Bride is  a wonderful example of historical romance with great characters. I enjoyed the people and their story. I might not be a big fan of religion in my romance, but the prayer and piety of the characters was so much a part of them that it did not jar me out of the story like it often can. It was well done all around. 

Early Book Review: Possession of a Highlander by Madeline Martin

Possession of a Highlander is the second book in the Highlander series by Madeline Martin. It is currently scheduled for release on August 11 2015. Brianna Lindsay's grip on the inheritance that is rightly hers hangs by a thread. If the town finds out her father has died Brianna will be forced into marriage with her loathsome cousin, Lord Robert, and will lose all of Edzell Castle and its lands. To protect her home, she'll have to trust a complete stranger, a brooding Highland barbarian who sweeps into Edzell with a small retinue and insists on replacing her Captain of the Guard. He proves his worth by defeating her men and she has no choice but to accept his offer. Though his motives are suspect, Colin MacKinnon has nobility in his blood and good intentions in coming to Edzell. He seeks his own kingdom and sets out to conquer Brianna in the best way he knows how, with seduction. Together, they must navigate a treacherous world of spies and intrigue, of legacy and fidelity, of love and betrayal, to find what is truly worth possessing.

Possession of a Highlander is a historical romance with plenty of intrigue and conflict. Brianna has a loyal castle of retainers, but with the loss of her father and the wondering mind of her maid she is in need of help. When an effort to receive aid results in the loss of her Captain of the Guard and the arrival of Colin there is only more trouble on the way. Her relations are more trouble than help, and while Colin seems to good to be true, and she certainly does not trust him. I liked Brianna's spunk and dedication to her people, she wasn't just avoiding marriage to her cousin for herself, she also knew that he and his father were cruel and would be bad leaders for everyone involved. Colin might have come in with grand plans for himself, but he also proves to be smart and chivalrous. I like that on several occasions he proves himself even better than even he thinks he is, and is willing to risk his safety and pride for the sake of the greater good and Brianna's welfare. I really liked Brianna’s character, and Colin’s as well. I was a little less thrilled with some of the secondary characters, particularly the cousin and uncle that caused all sorts of issues. Perhaps that was because I felt like it dragged on a little too long with the series of complications. However, I still enjoyed the book as a whole and was glad to see the final resolution. 

Possession of a Highlander is a complicated but enjoyable read. I liked the main characters, but was occasionally disappointed with the pacing. Despite that minor bump, I still am very happy with the read and would recommend the book to fans of the author and the genre. It might have been a little more complicated than most stories with a few extra layers of conflict, but it is well worth the read. 

Early Book Review: My Highland Bride by Maeve Greyson

My Highland Bride is the second book in the Highland Hearts series by Maeve Greyson. This romance is currently scheduled for release on August 25 2015. I have not read the first book in the series, and while it might have made the acclimation to the premise and cast of characters easier, I felt like I could fully enjoy the story despite the lack.  Kenna Sinclair seems like just another pretty Kentucky girl. But she can also read minds, erase memories, and jump through time; a skill set that comes in handy when her matchmaking granny sends her back to thirteenth-century Scotland on the pretext of visiting her older sister. When she encounters the clan’s womanizing man-at-arms, a single electrifying touch makes Kenna see that playing hard to get will not be easy. Bewitched by the first lass who could ever resist him, Colum Garrison will do anything to prove his devotion, even ask for Kenna’s hand in marriage, and swear off his chosen form of recreation until their wedding night. The match might be perfect, but Colum's pride just might open the door to more trouble than either are prepared for.

My Highland Bride caught me interest quickly, but lost me for a bit in the middle. The love interest between Kenna and Colum was quick, and backed up by the Sinclair family's particular set of gifts. I enjoyed Colum's character, and development but after the initial introduction to Kenna (which I really liked and got my hopes up for a strong character) I found her to be less dynamic and interesting as the story went on. I did like that they did not go straight to a happy ending, and when the big conflict arose in the middle I was on board with it.I thought it was just the kick in the pants Colum needed to kick things into gear. However, In I think the conflict as a whole was more complicated and hard on Colum than it needed to be. If it had come together a little sooner, I would have felt a little more connection with the final resolution- but because of the additional problems I found myself impatient for the conclusion. I also found myself more interested in the characters I expect to star in the next book than with Kenna and Colum.

My Highland Bride was a decent story. There were parts that I really loved, but was disappointed in Kenna’s character over all and became impatient with the story. I will be reading the next book, because this one did make me very interested to see what happens with two of the secondary characters which I fully expect to be the main players in the near future.

Early Book Review: If He's Noble by Hannah Howell

If He's Noble is the seventh book in the Wherlocke series by Hannah Howell. It is currently scheduled for release on July 28 2015. Like all of Howells books this book can stand on its own, but readers that have read some books from the Murray or related series will come in with a better understanding of what to expect from her characters. 

For Lady Primrose Wootten nothing has been ordinary since her father the Baron died and his wayward family filled the estate with greed and treachery. Primrose knows if she can just track down her brother, he can send the odious relations on their way. But instead she finds this enormous, powerful stranger, and forgets entirely what she was doing in the first place. Sir Bened Vaughn is an honorable man, and he knows he has no right to desire Primrose. Yet he does have an obligation to help her, and as they learn more about her brother's disappearance, he realizes that means staying by her side and wondering how much longer they can resist temptation.

If He's Noble is a fun romp with high excitement and great characters. Primrose is a strong but sheltered girl dealing with the danger of a deviously deadly aunt looking to take over her family's holdings. Bened has earned a title by saving the life of a important but foolish noble, after spending most of his life in service to others. They find each other in the woods, and soon Bened knows that Primrose is in more danger than she is ready to admit. His gift helps predict and defend against the dangers they face in search of her brother, but he cannot protect himself from everything. Many characters are introduced and new family members found for both families, and the action does get a little complex in places, as do the character relations, but it all comes together well at the end. I think Primrose is one of my favorite heroines from Howell in a while, though I think she was a bit more of a risk taker than I expected from her after awhile. I also found the big bad to be a little too evil and calculating, more of a Cruella De Ville style villain than anything realistic. All in all, a satisfying but not quite perfect romp through the woods with deadly intent fast on the heels of our heroes.

If He's Noble is just as much fun and full of adventure as fans would expect. Howell maintained the level of quality in characters and action that I look for and expect from her books. While I still think Primrose fell into bed a little early, and her aunt was a little too much, I still highly enjoyed the book. 

Early Book Review: Just in Time for a Highlander by Gwyn Cready

Just in Time for a Highlander is the first book in the Sirens of the Scottish Borderlands series by Gwyn Cready.  It is currently schedule for publication on February 3 2015. It's tough being a woman in a man's profession, especially for Abby Kerr, the unexpected chieftess of Clan Kerr. Loathe to marry but in need of a strong arm, Abby wishes for a Scots warrior and gets Duncan, the historical reenactment hobbyist. Wall Street Impresario Duncan MacHarg isn't bad with a fencing foil, but he's no Highlander. When a misdirected spell plucks him from the 21st century, he lands in 1705 Scotland at the feet of the fiercest woman he's ever laid eyes on. The English are on the border and the fiscal affairs are far from being in order. The independent Abby needs help, but could the strange man brought to her possibly by more help than hindrance?

I really wanted to love Just in Time for a Highlander, and to start with I did. I like Abby’s character and her friends. The conflict she faces, trying to lead her clan when so many men are against women having any kind of power. She is a strong and is working very hard to balance everything she needs to do to help her clan thrive. Duncan is intelligent and honorable. He wants to help Abby, but is unsure as to when in the history of Scotland he has landed and how he can be helpful. The attraction between the two is strong, and there is a suitor waiting for Abby in the wings, in a bunch or other complications. The characters are all pretty strong, and I really liked some of the side characters. However, it got to about a third of the way through the book and instead of moving towards a resolution more complications. When I got about halfway through the book the trend was still the same and I was starting to get a little anxious to finish. I liked the final resolution, and most of the complications were fine and made perfect sense in the book. I just felt like the book could have been more cohesive and faster paced without a few of the issues included. I can think of two or three complications that could have been excluded entirely with no loss to the drama and plot of the book.

Just in Time for a Highlander was a solid time travel romance. It was a little long and involved for my tastes, but I can see why some others might enjoy it more than I did. The characters and history are well done however.  

Early Book Review: Once Upon a Plaid (Spirit of the Highlands) by Mia Marlowe

Once Upon a Plaid is the latest book in the Spirit of the Highland series by Mia Marlowe. It is currently scheduled for release on October 7 2014.  Katherine Douglas is considered fortunate. Her husband, Laird William Douglas is broad-shouldered, gentle-handed, everything a lass could dream. However, after four years of marriage, Katherine still knows little of what goes on in his heart and she has yet to bear him an heir. Her pain and desire to set her husband free so he can have his heir has her at her childhood home. But William won't let his wife slip away without a fight. Before long, he's at her father's threshold himself, witness to the rumbles of discontent in Glengarry, the bright joy of Yuletide at a family hearth, and the hidden needs of his own beloved.

Once Upon a Plaid deals with issues most romance novels ignore, the ever after that has troubles of its own. Katherine and William were promised to each other as children, and have found love together even if they do not really communicate well. However, after a still born babe and several miscarriages, some of which Katherine has kept to herself, there are barriers and pain between them that need to be breached. It is the lack of communication and shielded emotion that is the root of all the strife between them. I liked that both characters are strong, intelligent, and thinking about the welfare of the other more so than themselves.  the addition of clan strife adds another layer of tension and excitement to the story, as does the trials of Katherine's sister, but the true heart of the story is about sharing pain and coming together. There is some faith involved, but not so much that it will push away those that do not enjoy religious fiction. It is more a part of the character's and their lives than a plot point. 

I enjoyed that Once Upon a Plaid dealt with some very tough issues, and I felt for the characters throughout the story. i will say that since it began with the couple well into their married life I did feel like I missed something important when I first began the book. It was still a solid read, and may be a very hard read for those that have had trouble conceiving or carrying children to term. The main suggestion I would offer to make the book feel more complete is to offer a preface with a wedding night or childhood day when their love for each other showed. 

Early Book Review: A Highland Wolf Christmas by Terry Spear

A Highland Wolf Christmas is part of the Heart of the Wolf series  by Terry Spear. This paranormal romance is currently scheduled for release on October 7 2014. Guthrie MacNeill is the financial adviser for his clan and werewolf pack. He is worried for the safety of a party planner who is staying with them to avoid an ex that will not take no for an answer, while trying to fight his attraction to her. What he cannot seem to reconcile the fact that his job is to save the clan's money, and hers seems to be to spend it. Calla Stewart has never had a more difficult client. The laird and lady of the castle are delightful, but the handsome Highlander holding the purse strings is quite impossible. When Guthrie takes on the role of Highland warrior to protect her the holidays take a turn for the passionate. 

A Highland Wolf Christmas is another entry in the heart of the Wolf series. Like the rest, it can stand on its own merit, but knowing what has happened in some of the most recent books can definitely add to the tension and investment in the characters. Guthrie has been around for awhile, and seen prosperous and painfully poor times. This is why he is so careful with the pack's money. When Calla is hired to throw a holiday party he is put at odds because even though he likes her more than he wants to admit, and worries for her safety in more ways than one, he is protective of the clan's finances and does not like to see them spent wastefully. Calla is a party planner with an ex fiance that just cannot except her rejection. While Guthrie might think she spends money like water, she is actually as mindful and forward thinking with finances as him. When danger comes, and hits them from several sides, it will take trust and teamwork to help them find the way to success and love.

A Highland Wolf Christmas is another solid book in the series. I was glad to see Calla's story be told since she was introduced as a character a few books ago. This was not my favorite in the series, that would most likely be Hero of a Highland Wolf, but it is still a solid read with some humor and great tension to keep the pages turning. 

Book Review: Hero of a Highland Wolf by Terry Spear

Hero of a Highland Wolf is the 14th book in the Heart of the Wolf series by Terry Spear. It is currently scheduled for release on August 5 2014. It is not necessary to read the prior books to enjoy any of the books in this series.The MacQuarrie werewolf clan has overseen the Playfair family’s Ardmore Castle for three centuries. So when a Playfair granddaughter from abroad inherits the estate, clan chief Grant MacQuarrie is not happy about having her in his way. Colleen Playfair is excited and apprehensive about her new role at the castle, but is ready for the challenge. She knows that the stubborn Grant won’t make things easy, but she has some surprises of her own.

Hero of a Highland Wolf is a fun paranormal romance. What American werewolf can say that they own a Scottish castle? Not many, but Colleen is rather excited to be one. She wants the change of scenery and does not want to change anything unless she thinks necessary. Grant remembers Colleen's father, and he was nothing but trouble/ He thinks that Colleen will follow in his footsteps so he is determined to make things as hard as possible for her. However, her good nature and willingness to learn and listen change everything. It does not hurt that the pair have an almost instant attraction. The werewolf bit has its role to play, and there is deception and life threatening moments to keep readers guessing, but it is the personalities of Grant and Colleen that keep the pages turning. I loved the surprises they each had in store for the other, and I am sure to pick up any other book in this series that I run across.

 I highly recommend Hero of a Highland Wolf to readers that like contemporary romance, men in kilts, paranormal romance, and suspense. The book has a little bit of everything and comes together just about perfectly. I have read a few books in this series, and my only real issue with any of them is that the official blurb never really matches what you get. I do not mind, because what is actually in the book has turned out to be better than promised each time.

Book Review:Crimson Heart by Heather McCollum

Crimson Heart is the third book in the historical romance Highland Hearts series by Heather McCollum. Elena has spent her entire life hiding, walking a thin line between lady and servant and hiding her royal blood. Now, a fiercely Catholic queen on the throne and Elena's Protestant caretaker is a target and she is at risk. Searc Munro is a highland warrior with a secret of his own. In a family of healers his ability to kill with a touch has been his secret for years, but when he reveals it to save his father he can feel his clan's suspicious glances. He sets off alone, only to  save a lass being attacked in the forest. together the pair seek refuge only to stumble onto a series of ritualistic murders, suspicion, and court intrigue.

Crimson Heart is a book that started off wonderfully. Elena is a smart, strong, and capable woman that somehow gets herself into some tricky situations. she is so used to hiding her lineage hat she has trouble fully trusting anyone, and holds onto her secret for as long as possible. Searcis a compassionate yet powerful alpha male that feels his version of the family magic might be evil.  The growth of their friendship, attraction, and most importantly trust is well done and does not feel rushed. The addition of the court intrigue was perfect, making things build and move along faster without make the reader feel like things were unnaturally forced ahead. My only issue is that in one scene the situation, which should have been a grand dramatic moment, I felt like I had read that exact situation before. In fact, it felt so familiar that I went back and made sure I had not read the book before, or something from this series before, to account for it. Perhaps it was just me.

I think that readers that enjoy historical romance, particularly with a slight twist of magic or political intrigue, will really enjoy Crimson Heart. Readers that have read other books from Heather McCollum will definitely want to pick it up.

Book Tour with Giveaway and Excerpt: Hero of a Highland Wolf by Terry Spear

Hero of a Highland Wolf by Terry Spear is currently scheduled for release on August 5, 2014. Here is your chance to pre-order and win some great prizes! I have not gotten a chance to read and review yet, but will be doing so in the near future.
 

Summary:

The MacQuarrie werewolf clan has overseen the Playfair family’s Ardmore Castle for three centuries. So when a Playfair granddaughter from abroad inherits the estate, clan chief Grant MacQuarrie has to train her to manage it—and he’s not happy about having her in his way. Until the prim old lady he’s expecting turns out to be a sexy young wolf…

Colleen Playfair is excited and apprehensive about her new role at the castle, and she has big plans to change the way its run. But the stubborn Grant won’t make things easy, and she’s forced to turn to seduction to get her way…

Excerpt:

Grant always joked and played with his clansmen when they were through with their work for the day. Well, even while they worked. But being with Colleen here like this felt different. For a moment, he didn’t feel like he served as the manager of her estates while she was the owner and taskmaster. He felt like a man with a woman on a Sunday jaunt in the glen. Except she wasn’t just any woman. She was a she-wolf, her cute little arse jiggling ahead of him as he climbed the hill to join her.

When he reached the top, she was trying to catch her breath and swayed a little. He grabbed her arm, and he didn’t know what came over him. But suddenly he was looking down into her smiling face, as if she was smiling at him, and he wanted in the worst way to kiss her.

She didn’t pull away from him, either.

He shouldn’t kiss her, but damn, he wanted to.

Still breathing hard, her heart beating fast, she placed her hand on his chest. He expected her to push him away, but she didn’t. She just stood there looking up at him, waiting for him to do something. He breathed in her scent, all woman and…interested.

They stood high on top of the hill overlooking the glen, the water rushing by, the sheep grazing on the green grass across the burn, and white clouds passing overhead against the blue sky.

He still had hold of her arm, but then he released her, cupped her face with both hands, and kissed her.

When his lips met hers, he knew he shouldn’t do this. He intended to make it sweet and unassuming, to quench some damnable need that he had to satisfy. He didn’t presume it would go anywhere, and he almost imagined it would be lame and unappealing—-after having built up the expectation that kissing that sweet mouth of hers would make his world spin and topple over. He hadn’t thought she’d crave the intimacy as much as he did. Yet when she wrapped her arms around his neck and kissed him back, she exhibited an eagerness that turned his world on end.

She was more than willing.

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Author Bio: 
USA Today bestselling author Terry Spear has written over two dozen paranormal romance novels and medieval Highland historical romances. In 2008 HEART OF THE WOLF was named a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year. A retired officer of the U.S. Army Reserves, Terry also creates award-winning teddy bears that have found homes all over the world. She lives in Crawford, Texas.

Social Networking Links

Website: www.terryspear.com  

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/TerrySpear

Book Review: Captured by the Pirate Laird by Amy Jarecki

Captured by the Pirate Laird is the first book in Highland Force series by Amy Jarecki. In this historical romance Lady Anne is married by proxy to a baron old enough to be her grandfather, and with a reputation that has her more than a little nervous about her future. She boards a ship to go meet new husband, only to be awoken by cannon fire as pirates attack the ship. Laird Calum MacLeod has a reason for plundering the ship, but no idea that Lady Anne will be part of the take. With no other choice, he takes Anne to his crumbling keep on the isle of Raasay and sends a letter of ransom to her husband. Against all logic, and the odds, Anne and MacLeod come to understand each other and the plights they face. Will they risk everything to be together, or follow the path of duty which just might destroy them both.

Captured by the Pirate Laird is a historical romance with a lot going on. Lady Anne is facing a common dilemma of the day, a marriage brokered by two old men with no concern of her desires of happiness. Calum is facing another common plight, trying to eek out a happy life for his people with very few resources, in a rough terrain, and turbulent time. Pirating is his last resort to get enough food and supplies for his people, since the animosity between the English and Scottish and making survival near impossible. Scottish laird Calum and the English Lady Anne each come to the story with strong minds, hearts, and understanding. So many things could go wrong, and some do, keeping the story exciting and moving quickly.  There are some twists and turns and fantastic characters. I am interested to see where the larger story arch of the series goes from here.

If you enjoy historical romance set in 16th century Scotland, or are just a sucker for a man in a kilt, then I would highly recommend Captured by the Pirate Laird. The story is rich in detail and the characters are very well fleshed out. I am intrigued to see who gets romanced in the next book. There was a teaser in the back of this book, but I skipped it so that I would not get excited for the next book and then just have to wait for it.