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Clan Kendrick #6
The Highlander's Kilted Bride
The youngest brother in Clan Kendrick has become a charismatic force in his own right—especially when the perfect woman gallops into his life—in the latest novel in USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Kelly’s sparkling Scottish Regency series.
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .
As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .
As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .
352 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 22, 2023
52 people are currently reading
3001 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Kelly
37 books1,763 followersVanessa Kelly is a bestselling author of historical mystery and historical romance. She has won multiple awards, including the prestigious Maggie Medallion for best historical romance. She is a USA Today, Barnes & Noble, BookScan, and Amazon bestseller several times over. To date, her books have been published in eleven languages. Vanessa also wrote USA Today bestselling contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels with her husband, under the pen name of V.K. Sykes.
After receiving her MA in English literature from Rutgers University, Vanessa spent several years in the Ph.D program at the University of Toronto, studying women authors of the 18th Century. She worked as a researcher for many years, and currently resides in Ottawa, Canada, with her husband.
After receiving her MA in English literature from Rutgers University, Vanessa spent several years in the Ph.D program at the University of Toronto, studying women authors of the 18th Century. She worked as a researcher for many years, and currently resides in Ottawa, Canada, with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
August 25, 2023
'The youngest brother in Clan Kendrick has become a charismatic force in his own right—especially when the perfect woman gallops into his life—in the latest novel in USA Today bestselling author Vanessa Kelly’s sparkling Scottish Regency series.
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .
As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .'
______________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
The Highlander's Kilted Bride is the sixth and, I believe final, book in the Vanessa Kelly's Clan Kendrick series and is a historical romance.
Angus continues to be one of the best parts of this series. He’s very amusing and I especially loved his animosity and needling of their host. But onto our main characters- Charlie and Kade, who are a great pairing that met originally as children. We’ve heard a lot about Kade throughout this series as a frequent source of worry to his family due to how sickly he was growing up. This proves to be a big source of friction for Kade as he is now hearty and hale, but his family still frets over him and tends toward coddling in the hopes to prevent his health from reverting. I really felt for Kade because he knew everyone was coming from a good place so he tried to be patient, but that would have been so frustrating. He somehow doesn’t recognize Charlie when he first sees her again, even though he is the one who has changed so much over the years.
The mystery was fun and one of my favorite parts of this story because with the meddling and hijinxs it felt a little like a Scooby-Doo episode, complete with a g-g-g-ghost!
I’d recommend this story and I think it can even be read as a stand alone if you wish to do so, but ideally you’d read the series together(but actually starting with the last book from the previous series so you read all the brothers’ stories) which will help with keeping the many members of this family straight. I’m quite certain that this is the last book in the series as all the Kendrick siblings have now had their story. This book has a very sweet ending, but it didn’t feel like the big ending that I would expect from a series conclusion with a family whose stories have spanned across two series. I think I was expecting a bonus epilogue that kind of glimpsed everyone's HEAs, but that probably would have made it really sappy and I wouldn’t have loved that, so I’m not going to question this too hard. If this is the last book, I’m looking forward to what her next series will look like.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for sharing an eARC of The Highlander's Kilted Bride with me. This is my honest review.
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .
As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .'
______________________
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 stars.
The Highlander's Kilted Bride is the sixth and, I believe final, book in the Vanessa Kelly's Clan Kendrick series and is a historical romance.
Angus continues to be one of the best parts of this series. He’s very amusing and I especially loved his animosity and needling of their host. But onto our main characters- Charlie and Kade, who are a great pairing that met originally as children. We’ve heard a lot about Kade throughout this series as a frequent source of worry to his family due to how sickly he was growing up. This proves to be a big source of friction for Kade as he is now hearty and hale, but his family still frets over him and tends toward coddling in the hopes to prevent his health from reverting. I really felt for Kade because he knew everyone was coming from a good place so he tried to be patient, but that would have been so frustrating. He somehow doesn’t recognize Charlie when he first sees her again, even though he is the one who has changed so much over the years.
The mystery was fun and one of my favorite parts of this story because with the meddling and hijinxs it felt a little like a Scooby-Doo episode, complete with a g-g-g-ghost!
I’d recommend this story and I think it can even be read as a stand alone if you wish to do so, but ideally you’d read the series together(but actually starting with the last book from the previous series so you read all the brothers’ stories) which will help with keeping the many members of this family straight. I’m quite certain that this is the last book in the series as all the Kendrick siblings have now had their story. This book has a very sweet ending, but it didn’t feel like the big ending that I would expect from a series conclusion with a family whose stories have spanned across two series. I think I was expecting a bonus epilogue that kind of glimpsed everyone's HEAs, but that probably would have made it really sappy and I wouldn’t have loved that, so I’m not going to question this too hard. If this is the last book, I’m looking forward to what her next series will look like.
_____
I would like to thank NetGalley and Kensington Books for sharing an eARC of The Highlander's Kilted Bride with me. This is my honest review.
July 27, 2023
This is a fun and entertaining addition to the Clan Kendrick series. I enjoyed the main romance and characters, and the mystery, though a bit predictable, was still intriguing.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
One of the main highlights of the novel and the series as a whole is the patriarch of the family. I love Angus. He’s so funny. A spitfire, even though he is a pain in the butt sometimes and he is meddlesome and ornery, he also has a heart of gold, great words of wisdom, and he bursts with pride and love for his family and country.
I liked the secondary characters, too, especially some of the Kendrick clan. It’s always great to see what they’re up to. Charlie’s family, however, was difficult to like, and they contrasted the Kendrick’s well. I also thought the mystery of the missing broach was intriguing, as was the curse behind it.
The setting is, as always, a gorgeous backdrop to the story, and I’m determined to one day go to Scotland so I can take in the breathtaking scenery I always read about. The story also takes place during a house party/wedding event. It was so fun and provided ample opportunities for shenanigans and mystery.
Thanks to Zebra for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
One of the main highlights of the novel and the series as a whole is the patriarch of the family. I love Angus. He’s so funny. A spitfire, even though he is a pain in the butt sometimes and he is meddlesome and ornery, he also has a heart of gold, great words of wisdom, and he bursts with pride and love for his family and country.
I liked the secondary characters, too, especially some of the Kendrick clan. It’s always great to see what they’re up to. Charlie’s family, however, was difficult to like, and they contrasted the Kendrick’s well. I also thought the mystery of the missing broach was intriguing, as was the curse behind it.
The setting is, as always, a gorgeous backdrop to the story, and I’m determined to one day go to Scotland so I can take in the breathtaking scenery I always read about. The story also takes place during a house party/wedding event. It was so fun and provided ample opportunities for shenanigans and mystery.
Thanks to Zebra for providing me with a copy of the book. All thoughts are my own.
August 19, 2023
A tomboy young woman kilts right into your heart!
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart has always been a force to be reckoned with as a child, and nothing has slowed her down as she’s moved into womanhood. She’s a feisty, and sparkling breath of fresh air.
(Good to see Kade Kendrick’s story. I’ve loved this series from the very first!)
Remember Kade? The youngest Kendrick brother. Kade had been a young boy, musically talented in the violin and piano. He was the main reason Victoria, now Countess Arnprior, had stayed at Castle Kinglas when employed as a governess, to tutor Kade.
Year’s later 1828 he’s an accomplished musician and composer who’s been the toast of London, Paris and the Continent. Kade is busy composing a concerto for King and has come back to Scotland to heal from a shoulder wound. Did I say he’s also been a spy?
Kade and family including that old reprobate, his Grandda Angus are attending a wedding. He’s apparently also supposed to compose a piece for the bridal couple.
Kade’s sitting outside resting when he finds a kitten up a tree and a gorgeous woman in a kilt about to climb up to rescue it.
The wedding will bring surprises, including the loss of a treasured Stewart family heirloom. The reward for the finding of the heirloom has Lord Kinloch flinging down an unorthodox challenge, a treasure hunt, and the prize? Hmm, your right!
Hilarious romp with plenty of sardonic humor and lively family interaction!
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart has always been a force to be reckoned with as a child, and nothing has slowed her down as she’s moved into womanhood. She’s a feisty, and sparkling breath of fresh air.
(Good to see Kade Kendrick’s story. I’ve loved this series from the very first!)
Remember Kade? The youngest Kendrick brother. Kade had been a young boy, musically talented in the violin and piano. He was the main reason Victoria, now Countess Arnprior, had stayed at Castle Kinglas when employed as a governess, to tutor Kade.
Year’s later 1828 he’s an accomplished musician and composer who’s been the toast of London, Paris and the Continent. Kade is busy composing a concerto for King and has come back to Scotland to heal from a shoulder wound. Did I say he’s also been a spy?
Kade and family including that old reprobate, his Grandda Angus are attending a wedding. He’s apparently also supposed to compose a piece for the bridal couple.
Kade’s sitting outside resting when he finds a kitten up a tree and a gorgeous woman in a kilt about to climb up to rescue it.
The wedding will bring surprises, including the loss of a treasured Stewart family heirloom. The reward for the finding of the heirloom has Lord Kinloch flinging down an unorthodox challenge, a treasure hunt, and the prize? Hmm, your right!
Hilarious romp with plenty of sardonic humor and lively family interaction!
A Kensington Books ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
(Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)
August 8, 2023
Barbara’s rating: 3.7 out of 5 Stars
Series: Clan Kendrick #6
Publication Date: 8/22/23
Period: Regency – the Highlands of Scotland
Number of Pages: 352
This book bids farewell to the Kendrick brothers as the last one marries and finds his HEA. The book is well-plotted, well-delivered, and the main characters are delightful – Charlie is just the kind of heroine I would have chosen for Kade. You can imagine all the chaos that abounds when two volatile, impetuous, and wild families are thrown together for any period of time. There is wit, humor, villains, curses, theft, weddings, and secondary characters who will definitely keep things interesting. We’ve known and loved Kade throughout the whole series and love him even more now that he is grown up and finding his own HEA. Then, of course, I fell in love with brave, cocky, feisty, incorrigible, and oh-so-sweet Charlie as soon as her eleven-year-old self graced the page.
Eleven-year-old Charlotte (Charlie) Stewart briefly met thirteen-year-old Kaden Kendrick fourteen years ago at a house party. Kade was very frail and sickly most of his young life and Charlie took an instant liking to him and made it her mission to protect him from the ‘mean boys’ attending the party. Charlie was smitten – and stayed that way. She had no interest in anyone else and planned to just be a spinster. However, our sweet Charlie has a family who cannot accept her for who she is. They – especially her mother – call her a hoyden and constantly try to make her fit their mold of what a proper Highland lady should be. Charlie doesn’t change who she is, but deep down, she is filled with self-doubt.
Kaden has grown up to become a very famous composer who does performances all over England and the continent. He even has a commission to create a concerto specifically for the King. He really has no time to attend a wedding deep in the Highlands, but that is where he and other members of his family are headed. When they are almost there, he sees this angel, in a kilt, riding her horse at top speed. What a breathtakingly beautiful sight with horse and rider moving as one. Soon, he learns the angel’s name – but doesn’t, at first, remember her as the Charlie from his childhood.
I loved both Kade and Charlie and thought they were just perfect for each other. It was heartwarming watching Kade coming to terms with his feelings for Charlie and helping her to understand that she is worthy, she is perfect just as she is. Charlie, of course, had to teach Kade a few lessons when he was overprotective. While Charlie and Kade are dancing around each other, life is going on. There is complete chaos surrounding them and they know they have to set it right. With family curses, a thief, a ghost, and hysterics aplenty, they will definitely have their work cut out for them.
I enjoyed this story, but as the last book in the series, I fully expected an epilogue to completely wrap-up the series and there wasn’t an epilogue at all. There was a beautiful wedding scene and some precious moments with Nick, Angus, and Kade, but I would have really liked something grander for the series wrap-up. Maybe something with all of the brothers and their families attending one of Kade’s performances – and maybe Charlie performing with him.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Series: Clan Kendrick #6
Publication Date: 8/22/23
Period: Regency – the Highlands of Scotland
Number of Pages: 352
This book bids farewell to the Kendrick brothers as the last one marries and finds his HEA. The book is well-plotted, well-delivered, and the main characters are delightful – Charlie is just the kind of heroine I would have chosen for Kade. You can imagine all the chaos that abounds when two volatile, impetuous, and wild families are thrown together for any period of time. There is wit, humor, villains, curses, theft, weddings, and secondary characters who will definitely keep things interesting. We’ve known and loved Kade throughout the whole series and love him even more now that he is grown up and finding his own HEA. Then, of course, I fell in love with brave, cocky, feisty, incorrigible, and oh-so-sweet Charlie as soon as her eleven-year-old self graced the page.
Eleven-year-old Charlotte (Charlie) Stewart briefly met thirteen-year-old Kaden Kendrick fourteen years ago at a house party. Kade was very frail and sickly most of his young life and Charlie took an instant liking to him and made it her mission to protect him from the ‘mean boys’ attending the party. Charlie was smitten – and stayed that way. She had no interest in anyone else and planned to just be a spinster. However, our sweet Charlie has a family who cannot accept her for who she is. They – especially her mother – call her a hoyden and constantly try to make her fit their mold of what a proper Highland lady should be. Charlie doesn’t change who she is, but deep down, she is filled with self-doubt.
Kaden has grown up to become a very famous composer who does performances all over England and the continent. He even has a commission to create a concerto specifically for the King. He really has no time to attend a wedding deep in the Highlands, but that is where he and other members of his family are headed. When they are almost there, he sees this angel, in a kilt, riding her horse at top speed. What a breathtakingly beautiful sight with horse and rider moving as one. Soon, he learns the angel’s name – but doesn’t, at first, remember her as the Charlie from his childhood.
I loved both Kade and Charlie and thought they were just perfect for each other. It was heartwarming watching Kade coming to terms with his feelings for Charlie and helping her to understand that she is worthy, she is perfect just as she is. Charlie, of course, had to teach Kade a few lessons when he was overprotective. While Charlie and Kade are dancing around each other, life is going on. There is complete chaos surrounding them and they know they have to set it right. With family curses, a thief, a ghost, and hysterics aplenty, they will definitely have their work cut out for them.
I enjoyed this story, but as the last book in the series, I fully expected an epilogue to completely wrap-up the series and there wasn’t an epilogue at all. There was a beautiful wedding scene and some precious moments with Nick, Angus, and Kade, but I would have really liked something grander for the series wrap-up. Maybe something with all of the brothers and their families attending one of Kade’s performances – and maybe Charlie performing with him.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 23, 2023
The Highlander's Kilted Bride is the sixth in the Clan Kendrick series but can be read as a stand alone, however I suggest reading the previous books just for the entertainment of following this family of highlanders as each finds their perfect mate. As a child, Kade was a sickly child who never had the strength to follow his older brothers but now he is a robust highlander and renowned musician who travels the continent and also does some spy work for the crown. Home to recuperate from a stabbing, he is roped into attending and playing at the wedding of a family friend. His plan is to stay hidden in the music room writing a new composition for the king but his plans are thrown when he spies a beautiful kilted lass riding a horse astride. Charlie, Charlotte Stewart, has had a crush on Kade since they were children and she punched a bully who was picking on him while he was sitting in a garden reading. Now with her sister's pending wedding, she discovers that he is attending and to add stress to the matter, her parents are trying to marry her off to man who is only marrying her for her dowry. Her heirloom brooch goes missing and her father makes the announcement that whoever locates the brooch will get Charlie's hand in marriage. As hi-jinks ensue and her brother suffers a few accidents, Charlie and Kade work together to solve the mysteries of who is behind everything and capture the culprit all while exploring where their growing attraction is leading. This is a wonderfully written, fun love story with laugh out loud moments and a cast of characters that add to the enjoyment of the story. Thank you Vanessa Kelly for another Clan Kendrick story that is simply impossible to put down.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
I received an advanced reader copy from the publisher but all thoughts and feelings are my own.
August 8, 2023
As anticipated after finishing the previous book it is time for Kade Kendrick to have his romance. Kade is a renowned musician and goes with his grandpa Angus and his oldest brother to attend a wedding in the Highlands. There he re-meets Charlotte (Charlie) Stewart who he remembers from a visit in his young teens. Charlie has been raised as a her father’s girl and would rather ride horses and fish than worry about dancing. It is her sisters wedding and her mother is pushing a suitor for her as well.
This is a lighter book than others in the series. Charlie and Kade are drawn to each other and she uses old legends and family bickering to put off an unwanted suitor. Romance is helped along by Ainsley who is Kade’s wonderfully unflappable sister in law. (A favorite through the series.) There is some menacing towards Charlie’s brother over gambling debts. A lot of the humor is Angus bickering with Charlie’s father over clan history along with his usual pushy hijinks. I like that by the 70 percent mark the two have confessed and are secure in their feelings. They still have to deal with family and other mysteries but there is no last minute break ups.
If this is the last in the series it is a good send off point. And if the author wants to start on the next generation I’m happy to follow along. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books, Zebra for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review
This is a lighter book than others in the series. Charlie and Kade are drawn to each other and she uses old legends and family bickering to put off an unwanted suitor. Romance is helped along by Ainsley who is Kade’s wonderfully unflappable sister in law. (A favorite through the series.) There is some menacing towards Charlie’s brother over gambling debts. A lot of the humor is Angus bickering with Charlie’s father over clan history along with his usual pushy hijinks. I like that by the 70 percent mark the two have confessed and are secure in their feelings. They still have to deal with family and other mysteries but there is no last minute break ups.
If this is the last in the series it is a good send off point. And if the author wants to start on the next generation I’m happy to follow along. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books, Zebra for the ARC and I am leaving a voluntary review
July 8, 2023
I’ve been charmed by all of the books in this series, and found this newest book just as enchanting! I feel in love with Kade and Charlie as individuals and also as a couple. I loved that they each accepted each other for who they were, especially because neither of them were conventional! They were fantastic, interesting characters separately and apart, but the most fun when they were together, of course! Kade’s grandda Angus steals all the scenes he’s in—what a great character! There is both romance and mystery in this story, and I was enthralled by it all!
September 4, 2023
The Highlander’s Kilted Bride by Vanessa Kelly is the sixth book in the Clan Kendrick Series. However, the book can be read as a standalone without much of an issue. In this novel, Kade Kendrick finally meets his match in Charlie (Charlotte) Stewart.
Kade is the youngest of the Kindrick brothers. He is not as bold and brash as the others. As the youngest (and sickly as a youngster) he has excelled as a pianist and a composer. He is home from his most recent tour due to a knife attack by a woman who was a spy. (It is a bit more convoluted and complex than that.) Kade is working on writing a piece for the king and being dragged along with his older brother and wife to a wedding in the highlands, where he remeets Charlie.
Charlie is unconventional. She does not resemble a proper young heiress as her family expects. She plays the fiddle, not the piano. She runs when she should walk and she never simpers. She wants to ride and stay away from dresses and balls and stuffy people.
Charlie drops back in Kade’s life by jumping a hedge and stopping his carriage by accident! Not that Kade recognizes her until later. Kade and Charlie are meant for each other - not that they recognize it right away.
I have enjoyed the series by Vanessa Kelly and especially enjoyed Charlie and Kade’s romance. The Highlander’s Kilted Bride by Vanessa Kelly was a good read.
Kade is the youngest of the Kindrick brothers. He is not as bold and brash as the others. As the youngest (and sickly as a youngster) he has excelled as a pianist and a composer. He is home from his most recent tour due to a knife attack by a woman who was a spy. (It is a bit more convoluted and complex than that.) Kade is working on writing a piece for the king and being dragged along with his older brother and wife to a wedding in the highlands, where he remeets Charlie.
Charlie is unconventional. She does not resemble a proper young heiress as her family expects. She plays the fiddle, not the piano. She runs when she should walk and she never simpers. She wants to ride and stay away from dresses and balls and stuffy people.
Charlie drops back in Kade’s life by jumping a hedge and stopping his carriage by accident! Not that Kade recognizes her until later. Kade and Charlie are meant for each other - not that they recognize it right away.
I have enjoyed the series by Vanessa Kelly and especially enjoyed Charlie and Kade’s romance. The Highlander’s Kilted Bride by Vanessa Kelly was a good read.
February 15, 2024
FAMILY! A wedding at Castle Kinglas, Scotland, brings together extended family and turmoil. Too many suitors and not enough smelling salts. A missing broach and a curse. An unpleasant, uninvited guest threatens the brother of the bride. Charlie (Charlotte) daughter of Lord and Lady Kinloch and sister to the bride, is a problem solver, but this time she needs a little help from Kade Kendrick. Falling in love creates more problems as Kade and Charlie solve a mystery and compromise for their future.
STEAMY KISSES ONLY!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley
STEAMY KISSES ONLY!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book from NetGalley
October 9, 2023
This is the sixth and final novel series, Kendrick Clan. It can be read as a stand alone story. You can tell there are other books in the series because of how the characters are written into the story, but they can be easily skipped because they are background characters as well.
Charlotte "Charlie" befriends Kade Kendrick while children as both their families are both at a gathering. He is sickly, and cannot play with other boys, and Charlie falls in love, and follows him everywhere. They bond when he helps open her world to music, and gives her the confidence to follow her love of music, and not let others stop her. Richard Campbell sees them, and mocks Kade. Feeling the need to protect him, she punches Andrew in the face. They meet again fourteen years later, and she still feels the need to protect him. This time, his shoulder is hurt. She finds out how and why little by little throughout the story.
Kade, a famous composer and musician, and occasional spy for the Crown, Realizing spy is not for him, he decides to keep to his music after he is stabbed by a Russian spy during a mission.
He agrees to attend a wedding with his brother Royal, sister in law Ainsley, and all too perceptive niece, Tira. We cannot forget Angus, the grandfather. He is the best character ever. Read the book to find out why. Unbeknownst to Kade, Ainsley has been tasked with helping the sister of the bride how to act like a lady and not the "hooligan" she is. Kade feels duped when he realizes they are to arrive much earlier than the actual wedding, and that is supposed to perform a recital at the wedding. He is much concerned about composing the concerto for the king.
Upon their arrival, it takes a bit of time before he realizes Charlie is the girl he met many years ago, and takes almost half the book before he remembers how she followed him everywhere, sharing their love music, and sharing confidences.
Instead of trying to change Charlie, Ainsley helps her be more confident in herself, and embrace her true self.
There is mystery, intrigue, a mystery, bad guys, arch nemesis (funny,) and a little romance thrown in for good measure.
While Kade feels the pressure, and would rather compose his concerto, he is stuck, and Charlie helps him throughout the novel. To me,.this represents the romance between the two. She slowly begins to help him, and he begins to discover her gifts. The more it comes together, as do they.
The concerto part is probably the most confusing part of the novel as well. There is so much focus on it throughout the novel, but then nothing. Just nothing. I wasn't a fan of the epilogue either. It doesn't mention what could come as Kade keeps saying.
This is more of a mystery, Nancy Drew style, The Mystery of the Missing Brooch. There was romance, but I felt the mystery was more of the focus. I wasn't expecting it.
There isn't much steam., almost clean except one scene when she was sitting in his lap. There are no sex scenes.
No triggers
Have I mentioned Angus is the best character ever? I definitely plan to read the previous novels, if only to read more of his antics. I'm still trying to figure out Colin because of Melissa.. In real life, who in the world would marry a woman like her? Vapors, crying, hysterics. She is great in the novel. The perfect sister for Charlie.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charlotte "Charlie" befriends Kade Kendrick while children as both their families are both at a gathering. He is sickly, and cannot play with other boys, and Charlie falls in love, and follows him everywhere. They bond when he helps open her world to music, and gives her the confidence to follow her love of music, and not let others stop her. Richard Campbell sees them, and mocks Kade. Feeling the need to protect him, she punches Andrew in the face. They meet again fourteen years later, and she still feels the need to protect him. This time, his shoulder is hurt. She finds out how and why little by little throughout the story.
Kade, a famous composer and musician, and occasional spy for the Crown, Realizing spy is not for him, he decides to keep to his music after he is stabbed by a Russian spy during a mission.
He agrees to attend a wedding with his brother Royal, sister in law Ainsley, and all too perceptive niece, Tira. We cannot forget Angus, the grandfather. He is the best character ever. Read the book to find out why. Unbeknownst to Kade, Ainsley has been tasked with helping the sister of the bride how to act like a lady and not the "hooligan" she is. Kade feels duped when he realizes they are to arrive much earlier than the actual wedding, and that is supposed to perform a recital at the wedding. He is much concerned about composing the concerto for the king.
Upon their arrival, it takes a bit of time before he realizes Charlie is the girl he met many years ago, and takes almost half the book before he remembers how she followed him everywhere, sharing their love music, and sharing confidences.
Instead of trying to change Charlie, Ainsley helps her be more confident in herself, and embrace her true self.
There is mystery, intrigue, a mystery, bad guys, arch nemesis (funny,) and a little romance thrown in for good measure.
While Kade feels the pressure, and would rather compose his concerto, he is stuck, and Charlie helps him throughout the novel. To me,.this represents the romance between the two. She slowly begins to help him, and he begins to discover her gifts. The more it comes together, as do they.
The concerto part is probably the most confusing part of the novel as well. There is so much focus on it throughout the novel, but then nothing. Just nothing. I wasn't a fan of the epilogue either. It doesn't mention what could come as Kade keeps saying.
This is more of a mystery, Nancy Drew style, The Mystery of the Missing Brooch. There was romance, but I felt the mystery was more of the focus. I wasn't expecting it.
There isn't much steam., almost clean except one scene when she was sitting in his lap. There are no sex scenes.
No triggers
Have I mentioned Angus is the best character ever? I definitely plan to read the previous novels, if only to read more of his antics. I'm still trying to figure out Colin because of Melissa.. In real life, who in the world would marry a woman like her? Vapors, crying, hysterics. She is great in the novel. The perfect sister for Charlie.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 25, 2023
Do you play an instrument? I used to play the piano and clarinet, but I haven’t played in quite some time. Now I enjoy listening to my children play the piano and their other instruments.
Music plays a key role in The Highlander’s Kilted Bride. In 1828, Kade of the Klan Kendrick has recently returned home to Scotland after a worldwide tour playing his music and also spying for his country. He is annoyed at being roped into attending a wedding and perhaps playing a concert of his music rather than getting to spend his time working on his latest piece that has been commissioned by the king. While on the way to the wedding, his carriage is nearly crashed into by a feisty lady riding a white horse, Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart. The two met as children and have a shared love of music. Charlie is meant to marry another, but will Kade and Charlie forge their own path?
I thought The Highlander’s Kilted Bride was a delightful escapism read. It’s been a very busy week at work and in life and it was fun to be able to settle down each evening and read this novel. I loved the characters in this novel. The story starts with a prologue where Charlie and Kade meet as children and Charlie defends Kade by punching another boy in the nose. This sets the tone for their relationship, and I loved it. I loved Charlie’s spunky personality and also enjoyed their shared love of music. All of the other characters were great, but I think I would have loved them even more if I had read the first five novels in this series and knew their back stories. I always enjoy a Scottish setting and loved the highland setting of this book.
The story was very fun with a wedding, a loss of a family heirloom, and the search for a treasure all with love blooming in the midst. I enjoyed the mysteries. I especially loved feisty Grandpa Angus. He has great love for his family and hilarious anger towards other families for past historic misdeeds. The book had great humor and had me chuckling often. I loved all of the family interactions.
Favorite Quote: “One need not trick oneself out in the latest styles or simper about as a ninny to be a woman, and a lovely one at that.” I loved the message of being yourself in this novel.
Book Source: Review Copy from author Vanessa Kelly and NetGalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the TLC Book Tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
Music plays a key role in The Highlander’s Kilted Bride. In 1828, Kade of the Klan Kendrick has recently returned home to Scotland after a worldwide tour playing his music and also spying for his country. He is annoyed at being roped into attending a wedding and perhaps playing a concert of his music rather than getting to spend his time working on his latest piece that has been commissioned by the king. While on the way to the wedding, his carriage is nearly crashed into by a feisty lady riding a white horse, Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart. The two met as children and have a shared love of music. Charlie is meant to marry another, but will Kade and Charlie forge their own path?
I thought The Highlander’s Kilted Bride was a delightful escapism read. It’s been a very busy week at work and in life and it was fun to be able to settle down each evening and read this novel. I loved the characters in this novel. The story starts with a prologue where Charlie and Kade meet as children and Charlie defends Kade by punching another boy in the nose. This sets the tone for their relationship, and I loved it. I loved Charlie’s spunky personality and also enjoyed their shared love of music. All of the other characters were great, but I think I would have loved them even more if I had read the first five novels in this series and knew their back stories. I always enjoy a Scottish setting and loved the highland setting of this book.
The story was very fun with a wedding, a loss of a family heirloom, and the search for a treasure all with love blooming in the midst. I enjoyed the mysteries. I especially loved feisty Grandpa Angus. He has great love for his family and hilarious anger towards other families for past historic misdeeds. The book had great humor and had me chuckling often. I loved all of the family interactions.
Favorite Quote: “One need not trick oneself out in the latest styles or simper about as a ninny to be a woman, and a lovely one at that.” I loved the message of being yourself in this novel.
Book Source: Review Copy from author Vanessa Kelly and NetGalley. Thank-you! I received a complimentary copy of this book as part of the TLC Book Tour. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
This review was first posted on my blog at: https://lauragerold.blogspot.com/2023...
August 26, 2023
3.5⭐️/5
0.5🌶️/5
This is for you if you want a Scottish historical romance set in 1828, with childhood friends to lovers, somewhat insta love, comedy, mystery, and a tease of steam (not even just the tip, if you will). Though this is book 6 of Clan Kendrick and didn’t read the previous books, I did not feel lost in the background of the Kendrick clan.
From the prologue I was immediately sucked in and became a fan of lil Charlie, described as an unconventional girl (in a kilt!) and a lil scrapper. She was my hero. It was such a sweet friendship between the preteen versions Charlie and Kade.
Adult Charlie and Kade had a good chemistry and friendship. Charlie started out as ranking up there with my fave FMCs - a genuinely kind person but who has an independent streak. She was a sympathetic character to me since she was always being scolded, corrected, or frowned upon by her mom and sister for not adhering to what was considered standard for ladies of the time. My heart went out to Charlie because she thought she was just a country bumpkin, even though she was a talented, sweet original young lady who needed encouragement to thrive. 🥺🥺
Kade was a bit dense for a chunk of the story, however, like overly so (no way does he have feelings for Charlie! He could never get married!) and that was getting a bit redundant. The family dynamic was pure comic relief from Grandda Angus to sis Melissa with the vapors and lil sweet niece Tira
Around 60% of the book, I felt the plot kind of start to drag out and shift into a mystery/who dunnit caper, so I didn’t have as much fun when focus changed from the Kade and Charlie romance to “the case of the missing jewels” and related mysteries. That bummed me out because the first half had me so excited of this book’s potential.
Thank you to ZEBRA BOOKS Kensington Publishing Corp.and NetGalley for the advanced copy. This review was voluntarily provided and are my own thoughts/opinions.
0.5🌶️/5
This is for you if you want a Scottish historical romance set in 1828, with childhood friends to lovers, somewhat insta love, comedy, mystery, and a tease of steam (not even just the tip, if you will). Though this is book 6 of Clan Kendrick and didn’t read the previous books, I did not feel lost in the background of the Kendrick clan.
From the prologue I was immediately sucked in and became a fan of lil Charlie, described as an unconventional girl (in a kilt!) and a lil scrapper. She was my hero. It was such a sweet friendship between the preteen versions Charlie and Kade.
Adult Charlie and Kade had a good chemistry and friendship. Charlie started out as ranking up there with my fave FMCs - a genuinely kind person but who has an independent streak. She was a sympathetic character to me since she was always being scolded, corrected, or frowned upon by her mom and sister for not adhering to what was considered standard for ladies of the time. My heart went out to Charlie because she thought she was just a country bumpkin, even though she was a talented, sweet original young lady who needed encouragement to thrive. 🥺🥺
Kade was a bit dense for a chunk of the story, however, like overly so (no way does he have feelings for Charlie! He could never get married!) and that was getting a bit redundant. The family dynamic was pure comic relief from Grandda Angus to sis Melissa with the vapors and lil sweet niece Tira
Around 60% of the book, I felt the plot kind of start to drag out and shift into a mystery/who dunnit caper, so I didn’t have as much fun when focus changed from the Kade and Charlie romance to “the case of the missing jewels” and related mysteries. That bummed me out because the first half had me so excited of this book’s potential.
Thank you to ZEBRA BOOKS Kensington Publishing Corp.and NetGalley for the advanced copy. This review was voluntarily provided and are my own thoughts/opinions.
September 19, 2023
I’m a huge fan of Vanessa Kelly’s books! I love them!
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .
I adored this story. These two were perfect for each other and this was definitely a romance worth waiting for. It was funny, easy to read and romantic. Charlie and Kade surprised me, and I was engaged in their interactions from the beginning.
There’s intrigue, romance and a bit of aghast. It was beautiful to see more Kendricks. I have read all the previous books in this series and they are all soooo good and funny. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart would rather don a kilt and ride her horse than simper in a ballroom. But with her younger sister about to be wed, she can’t escape the pressure to be next. A husband has been chosen, and Charlie’s fate seems set. Until an afternoon gallop sends her horse colliding with Kade Kendrick, the broad-shouldered Highlander who was once her childhood pal . . .As a youth, Kade felt overshadowed by his older siblings. Now he’s a renowned musician whose fame provides cover for his other work—as a spy. Home from his latest mission, he’s annoyed to be roped into attending the wedding of a family friend—until it reunites him with the fearless tomboy who has become a breathtaking beauty. And though his thoughts should be on a new concerto, Kade is soon distracted by rival suitors, a dangerous quest—and the unconventional woman who fills his soul with music and his body with desire . . .
I adored this story. These two were perfect for each other and this was definitely a romance worth waiting for. It was funny, easy to read and romantic. Charlie and Kade surprised me, and I was engaged in their interactions from the beginning.
There’s intrigue, romance and a bit of aghast. It was beautiful to see more Kendricks. I have read all the previous books in this series and they are all soooo good and funny. I highly recommend it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 8, 2023
This is the 6th and final book in the Clan Kendrick series. It can be read as a stand alone but is so much better knowing the history of the family.
Kade is the baby of the family. His mother died giving birth to him, so he was raised by his oldest brother and his grandfather, Angus (who is a constant character throughout all 6 books). Kade was very sickly as a child, so he was fussed over and pampered and confined to the house. As a result he became interested in music and became so good, he becomes a concert pianist.
During his childhood, Kade meets Charlotte. She defends him against bullies. She lives listening to him play his violin. Kade encourages her to take up lessons (even though it is not considered proper for a young lady to play the fiddle). Charlotte does and learns to play beautifully.
The story was good. It has romance, mystery and danger.
But the end, the epilogue, I cried thru the whole thing. It just brought a wonderful conclusion to the whole series.
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to thank Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book.
Kade is the baby of the family. His mother died giving birth to him, so he was raised by his oldest brother and his grandfather, Angus (who is a constant character throughout all 6 books). Kade was very sickly as a child, so he was fussed over and pampered and confined to the house. As a result he became interested in music and became so good, he becomes a concert pianist.
During his childhood, Kade meets Charlotte. She defends him against bullies. She lives listening to him play his violin. Kade encourages her to take up lessons (even though it is not considered proper for a young lady to play the fiddle). Charlotte does and learns to play beautifully.
The story was good. It has romance, mystery and danger.
But the end, the epilogue, I cried thru the whole thing. It just brought a wonderful conclusion to the whole series.
5⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I want to thank Netgalley for the opportunity to review this book.
August 28, 2023
This was a terrific conclusion to the Clan Kendrick series. This book is about Kade, the youngest of the brothers, who was sickly as a child but has grown up to be a hale, hearty, and handsome man. Kade is a talented musician who has earned acclaim at home and abroad. His travels as a musician have also provided cover for his secondary occupation as a spy for the Crown. He's back home in Scotland, recovering from a wound received during his last mission and working on a concerto commissioned by the king. He's not happy to be dragged along to a family friend's wedding, especially when he learns he's also supposed to write and play a piece for the happy couple. That annoyance takes a back seat when he becomes reacquainted with his childhood friend, Charlotte (Charlie) Stewart.
Charlie had had a crush on Kade since the summer his family visited when she was eleven and he was thirteen. An unabashed tomboy, Charlie was protective of a kind but frail boy who was always nice to her. Now that she's grown, she's still just as much a tomboy and the despair of her mother. With Charlie's younger sister about to get married, Mom is determined to find a husband for Charlie - whether she wants one or not. Furious at her mother's plans, Charlie blows off steam in a wild ride that ends in a near collision with the Kendrick coach. While Charlie recognizes Kade immediately, despite his changes, Kade is clueless about the identity of the stunning woman in front of him.
I loved watching the relationship develop between Charlie and Kade. He helps his sister-in-law, Ainsley, with the "lady lessons" Charlie is forced to undertake. Charlie's individuality is seen as odd and embarrassing by her family, who don't understand her. But Kade sees an intelligent, talented, and beautiful woman who stirs feelings in him he's never felt for another woman. As a typically stubborn Kendrick man, he fights his feelings at first, but it isn't long before he realizes she is exactly what he didn't know he needed. Charlie has loved Kade for years but doesn't see how a girl from the highlands could aspire to a world traveler like Kade. Their shared love of music brings them closer together, and seeing Charlie's muse-like effect on Kade was terrific.
But this is a book about the Kendrick family, which means that nothing goes smoothly. The always hilarious patriarch of the family, Angus, begins the visit by irritating Charlie's father over a long-past highland battle and feud. Angus, who is never wrong about anything (in his eyes), is also adept at interfering in everything from relationships to investigations, usually with frustrating and hilarious results. Kade tries to keep his head down and concentrate on his concerto, but when a family brooch with a curse attached goes missing, he finds himself caught up in helping Charlie find it.
Charlie is desperate to find it herself because her father has promised that whatever man finds it can have her hand in marriage - a promise she is not interested in keeping. Two gentlemen appear to be most interested: a family friend who has the inside track with Charlie's mother and is more interested in Charlie's dowry than in Charlie. The other is a friend of Charlie's brother, Johnny, and gives off a creepy vibe. Charlie isn't one to wait for someone to rescue her, and her attempts to free herself from her unwanted suitors create some hilarious, or do I mean hysterical, mayhem. The mystery of the brooch is solved in a terrific scene where Kade's careful plans are nearly ruined by those he tried to protect. All's well that ends well, though, if Kade can convince Charlie that they belong together. I loved the ending, and the epilogue was fantastic. Seeing the whole clan together as the youngest gets married was the perfect conclusion for the series.
The secondary characters always add depth and personality to the author's books. Angus remains my favorite of those characters. Family always comes first with him, even if his methods are unconventional. Though he frequently exasperates his family, they love him despite it. I always love to see Ainsley, the spirited Sassenach wife of Royal Kendrick. It's always fun to see her go up against the stubborn highlanders in her family and come out on top. I especially love her relationship with Angus. I did not care much for Charlie's parents. They don't appear even to try to understand her, though I felt she had a fairly decent relationship with her father until he tried to force her into marriage. Charlie's mother was too worried about other people's opinions and should have been on Charlie's side when picking a husband. Charlie's sister, Melissa, was an airhead who seemed to live for drama. I felt sorry for her husband. Charlie's younger brother Johnny's biggest problem was that he was still young and foolish, which made him a target for the unscrupulous. He also allowed his pride to keep him from asking for desperately needed help. Luckily for him, Charlie wasn't about to give up on him.
I can't wait to see what the author has for us next.
#netgalley
Charlie had had a crush on Kade since the summer his family visited when she was eleven and he was thirteen. An unabashed tomboy, Charlie was protective of a kind but frail boy who was always nice to her. Now that she's grown, she's still just as much a tomboy and the despair of her mother. With Charlie's younger sister about to get married, Mom is determined to find a husband for Charlie - whether she wants one or not. Furious at her mother's plans, Charlie blows off steam in a wild ride that ends in a near collision with the Kendrick coach. While Charlie recognizes Kade immediately, despite his changes, Kade is clueless about the identity of the stunning woman in front of him.
I loved watching the relationship develop between Charlie and Kade. He helps his sister-in-law, Ainsley, with the "lady lessons" Charlie is forced to undertake. Charlie's individuality is seen as odd and embarrassing by her family, who don't understand her. But Kade sees an intelligent, talented, and beautiful woman who stirs feelings in him he's never felt for another woman. As a typically stubborn Kendrick man, he fights his feelings at first, but it isn't long before he realizes she is exactly what he didn't know he needed. Charlie has loved Kade for years but doesn't see how a girl from the highlands could aspire to a world traveler like Kade. Their shared love of music brings them closer together, and seeing Charlie's muse-like effect on Kade was terrific.
But this is a book about the Kendrick family, which means that nothing goes smoothly. The always hilarious patriarch of the family, Angus, begins the visit by irritating Charlie's father over a long-past highland battle and feud. Angus, who is never wrong about anything (in his eyes), is also adept at interfering in everything from relationships to investigations, usually with frustrating and hilarious results. Kade tries to keep his head down and concentrate on his concerto, but when a family brooch with a curse attached goes missing, he finds himself caught up in helping Charlie find it.
Charlie is desperate to find it herself because her father has promised that whatever man finds it can have her hand in marriage - a promise she is not interested in keeping. Two gentlemen appear to be most interested: a family friend who has the inside track with Charlie's mother and is more interested in Charlie's dowry than in Charlie. The other is a friend of Charlie's brother, Johnny, and gives off a creepy vibe. Charlie isn't one to wait for someone to rescue her, and her attempts to free herself from her unwanted suitors create some hilarious, or do I mean hysterical, mayhem. The mystery of the brooch is solved in a terrific scene where Kade's careful plans are nearly ruined by those he tried to protect. All's well that ends well, though, if Kade can convince Charlie that they belong together. I loved the ending, and the epilogue was fantastic. Seeing the whole clan together as the youngest gets married was the perfect conclusion for the series.
The secondary characters always add depth and personality to the author's books. Angus remains my favorite of those characters. Family always comes first with him, even if his methods are unconventional. Though he frequently exasperates his family, they love him despite it. I always love to see Ainsley, the spirited Sassenach wife of Royal Kendrick. It's always fun to see her go up against the stubborn highlanders in her family and come out on top. I especially love her relationship with Angus. I did not care much for Charlie's parents. They don't appear even to try to understand her, though I felt she had a fairly decent relationship with her father until he tried to force her into marriage. Charlie's mother was too worried about other people's opinions and should have been on Charlie's side when picking a husband. Charlie's sister, Melissa, was an airhead who seemed to live for drama. I felt sorry for her husband. Charlie's younger brother Johnny's biggest problem was that he was still young and foolish, which made him a target for the unscrupulous. He also allowed his pride to keep him from asking for desperately needed help. Luckily for him, Charlie wasn't about to give up on him.
I can't wait to see what the author has for us next.
#netgalley
August 23, 2023
Book: The Highlander’s Kilted Bride
Author: Vanesssa Kelly
Series: Clan Kendrick , Book #6
Publisher: Zebra Books, Kensington Publishing
Book Length: 352 Pages
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flag
Glencoe, Scotland 1828
Charlotte Charlie Stewart who is known as ‘Charlie” is a tomboy who would rather throw away her dresses, hair ribbons and all other feminine hair accessories, and wear a glorious great kilt! She also rides a horse like lad, no side saddle for this spitfire who has a rebellious nature to be sure. She is so furious since her little sister is about to join marital bliss, something Charlie wants nothing to do with! However now the pressure is on her, a man has been picked to be her future husband! A man that is very boring, wears outrageous garments that are absolutely hideous and even curls his straight hair! On top of that it is not a love match like her sister Melissa. This man is only interested in her big fat dowry!
Charlie needs to release some steam, being so furious she goes on a run with a horse. That is until she nearly collides into her dear childhood friend Kade Kendrick and a few of his family members, including everyone’s favorite match-making grandfather, Angus MacDonald. This is where Kade Kendrick bumps into his childhood friend who was like one of the lads, but this woman he barely recognized since she was such a tomboy when she was a child. Now Charlie Stewart has turned into a stunning beauty with spirit and class. Of course she had only been eleven and he was thirteen and it is fourteen years later. What he does not know is his sister in law Ainsley is there to give her some tutoring in becoming a lady.
Of course in their childhood Kade was weak and sickly barely surviving and she was one of the lads. Now he is an accomplished musician and composer which helped him hide his previous identity as a spy. He is now at this wedding as he is the entertainment being a musical prodigy and soon Charlie becomes his muse as she has musical talent too. Kade also has changed very much physically too with a muscular braw body, the face of an angel that would make any lass swoon. The attraction between Kade and Charlie happens very quickly. Although Charlie has loved Kade since she was a girl. Kade has never felt this way before about any woman in his life.
The problem is Charlie's family only sees her as an embarrassment and an oddity. The only person that seems to understand her is Kade; he sees her as the talented, intelligent, beauty she is as their love only seems to grow. Now there's a missing heirloom her family has decided that the first person to find it may have Charlie’s hand in marriage! This is absolutely humiliating for Charlie and she is beyond hurt. On top of that her brother Johnny is with the wrong type of people, who are taking advantage of him and might even put the lad in danger. Charlie wants to protect him from ruin. Plus Angus and Charlie’s father still feud over the Battle of Glencoe like it just happened yesterday! So again these two families are beyond silliness but now there is a villain in their mist! Do Charlie and Kade have a chance at love or will she be forced to marry a man who is only interested in dowry?
If you want to start with the first book which is Nicholas Kendrick, Earl of Arnprior in The Highlanders Princess Bride in The Improper Princesses series in book #3. Of course the other 6 brothers are in this Clan Kendrick series which are Royal, Logan, Graeme, Grant, Braeden and Kade. Read as stand alone or in series order. I highly recommend reading the entire series, as I think readers will have a better understanding of the Kendrick brothers and the women who capture their hearts.
This is the sixth and series finale of the Kendrick family sadly. Have the Kleenex ready as I am very sad to see the series end which I have loved so much. Be prepared to laugh and cry as it is an extraordinary finish to a fabulous series that is absolutely unforgettable. Again another book I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received this advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Buy Links:
https://www.amazon.com/Highlanders-Ki...
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-...
https://books.apple.com/us/book/the-h...
https://play.google.com/store/books/d...
Author: Vanesssa Kelly
Series: Clan Kendrick , Book #6
Publisher: Zebra Books, Kensington Publishing
Book Length: 352 Pages
Book Rating: 5/5 Stars
Blog Rating: 5/5 Saltire Flag
Glencoe, Scotland 1828
Charlotte Charlie Stewart who is known as ‘Charlie” is a tomboy who would rather throw away her dresses, hair ribbons and all other feminine hair accessories, and wear a glorious great kilt! She also rides a horse like lad, no side saddle for this spitfire who has a rebellious nature to be sure. She is so furious since her little sister is about to join marital bliss, something Charlie wants nothing to do with! However now the pressure is on her, a man has been picked to be her future husband! A man that is very boring, wears outrageous garments that are absolutely hideous and even curls his straight hair! On top of that it is not a love match like her sister Melissa. This man is only interested in her big fat dowry!
Charlie needs to release some steam, being so furious she goes on a run with a horse. That is until she nearly collides into her dear childhood friend Kade Kendrick and a few of his family members, including everyone’s favorite match-making grandfather, Angus MacDonald. This is where Kade Kendrick bumps into his childhood friend who was like one of the lads, but this woman he barely recognized since she was such a tomboy when she was a child. Now Charlie Stewart has turned into a stunning beauty with spirit and class. Of course she had only been eleven and he was thirteen and it is fourteen years later. What he does not know is his sister in law Ainsley is there to give her some tutoring in becoming a lady.
Of course in their childhood Kade was weak and sickly barely surviving and she was one of the lads. Now he is an accomplished musician and composer which helped him hide his previous identity as a spy. He is now at this wedding as he is the entertainment being a musical prodigy and soon Charlie becomes his muse as she has musical talent too. Kade also has changed very much physically too with a muscular braw body, the face of an angel that would make any lass swoon. The attraction between Kade and Charlie happens very quickly. Although Charlie has loved Kade since she was a girl. Kade has never felt this way before about any woman in his life.
The problem is Charlie's family only sees her as an embarrassment and an oddity. The only person that seems to understand her is Kade; he sees her as the talented, intelligent, beauty she is as their love only seems to grow. Now there's a missing heirloom her family has decided that the first person to find it may have Charlie’s hand in marriage! This is absolutely humiliating for Charlie and she is beyond hurt. On top of that her brother Johnny is with the wrong type of people, who are taking advantage of him and might even put the lad in danger. Charlie wants to protect him from ruin. Plus Angus and Charlie’s father still feud over the Battle of Glencoe like it just happened yesterday! So again these two families are beyond silliness but now there is a villain in their mist! Do Charlie and Kade have a chance at love or will she be forced to marry a man who is only interested in dowry?
If you want to start with the first book which is Nicholas Kendrick, Earl of Arnprior in The Highlanders Princess Bride in The Improper Princesses series in book #3. Of course the other 6 brothers are in this Clan Kendrick series which are Royal, Logan, Graeme, Grant, Braeden and Kade. Read as stand alone or in series order. I highly recommend reading the entire series, as I think readers will have a better understanding of the Kendrick brothers and the women who capture their hearts.
This is the sixth and series finale of the Kendrick family sadly. Have the Kleenex ready as I am very sad to see the series end which I have loved so much. Be prepared to laugh and cry as it is an extraordinary finish to a fabulous series that is absolutely unforgettable. Again another book I highly recommend!
Disclaimer: I received this advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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August 12, 2023
Charlotte Stewart was never a typical girl, at eleven she could out-ride, out-shoot, and out-hunt most boys, she wore a kilt and was called Charlie by most people. She never really cared about being a “proper girl” or thought about boys as anything more than playmates, until she met thirteen-year-old Kade Kendrick. It was a meeting that is forever etched in her memory and the day she fell in love with Kade and the violin. Now years later they meet again and to her complete mortification, he doesn’t even remember who she is. But that is about to change and if she is willing to risk her heart and can get rid of the suitor her parents are set on, Charlie’s life will never be the same.
Kade Kendrick was a sickly child and found solace in music, as he grew stronger, he outgrew his childhood ailments and became a world-renowned musician. But eventually, the shine wore off his fame and he dabbled in spying for the crown, but that did not work out and almost cost him his life. So he is back home to recuperate and finds himself roped into attending a wedding, where apparently his sister-in-law Ainsely has promised he will perform! He is intrigued by Charlie from the start and can’t believe he didn’t remember their first meeting right away. But when a family heirloom goes missing, he will have his chance to renew his friendship with her and maybe even convince her that when a Kendrick finds his true love, it is forever.
This was a fun read with a mystery woven into the romance. Kade and Charlie are very well-matched and have a wonderful chemistry. Charlie did suffer from a bit of insecurity and Kade seemed to fall in love a bit too fast, but I did love them together and enjoyed their banter. The story has a lot of secondary characters, a decent mystery, unwanted suitors, Angus being Angus, curses, accidents, phantom fiddlers, stolen heirlooms, stolen kisses, insecurities, and finally a HEA including an epilogue. I enjoyed this story and thought it was a nice ending to the series, but I was hoping for a glimpse into everyone’s HEAs in the epilogue and didn’t really get that, but overall this was a very good read and I would happily recommend it. I think it could be read as a standalone title, but I would suggest reading the series in order for the best reader experience.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
Kade Kendrick was a sickly child and found solace in music, as he grew stronger, he outgrew his childhood ailments and became a world-renowned musician. But eventually, the shine wore off his fame and he dabbled in spying for the crown, but that did not work out and almost cost him his life. So he is back home to recuperate and finds himself roped into attending a wedding, where apparently his sister-in-law Ainsely has promised he will perform! He is intrigued by Charlie from the start and can’t believe he didn’t remember their first meeting right away. But when a family heirloom goes missing, he will have his chance to renew his friendship with her and maybe even convince her that when a Kendrick finds his true love, it is forever.
This was a fun read with a mystery woven into the romance. Kade and Charlie are very well-matched and have a wonderful chemistry. Charlie did suffer from a bit of insecurity and Kade seemed to fall in love a bit too fast, but I did love them together and enjoyed their banter. The story has a lot of secondary characters, a decent mystery, unwanted suitors, Angus being Angus, curses, accidents, phantom fiddlers, stolen heirlooms, stolen kisses, insecurities, and finally a HEA including an epilogue. I enjoyed this story and thought it was a nice ending to the series, but I was hoping for a glimpse into everyone’s HEAs in the epilogue and didn’t really get that, but overall this was a very good read and I would happily recommend it. I think it could be read as a standalone title, but I would suggest reading the series in order for the best reader experience.
*I am voluntarily leaving a review for an eARC that I requested and was provided to me by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.*
August 16, 2023
I so loved the book!!!! It is such a fun read!
Kade Kendrick, brother to Nicholas Earl of Arnprior, Victoria, Countess of Arnprior, was Kade’s former governess, now Nick's wife, twin brothers Royal married to Ainsley,
Braden who took up medicine after helping take care of Made as a child married Samantha. Then there is grandda Angus MacDonald, who is a pip!! He takes his heritage seriously, supports what they want and prayers them as if he show be in bedlam. Interfering is his nature along with such plain speaking he will have you wondering what he will be up to next.
Charlotte Elizabeth Stewart, daughter of Lord Henry and Lady Elspeth Kinloch, sister Melissa who is marrying Colin MacMillan, and her brother Johnny. Charlotte goes by "Charlie" except with her mother and sister. She wore kilts,Loves horses, and Loves her obnoxious family.
Richard and Andrew, Campbell boys, tormentors when younger, now Richard wants to court and marry Charlie for political connections and her dowery.
Aden St. George was Chief of Intelligence at the Home Office., Vivien was married to Aden St. George and a half cousin to Kendrick family.
Sir Leslie Morgan, pompusness self-indulgent vermin is what he is being referred to as.
We are gathered to celebrate the wedding Miss Melissa Stewart to Mr Colin MacMillan. For this joyous occasion we have mayhem, bedlam, and a mystery of a "stolen" brooch, the "Clan Iain brooch,” thistle brooch is a family heirloom, always passed down from mother to eldest daughter gifted by Queen Charlotte to the family years ago.
Melissa has a reoccurring case of hysterics, Johnny doesn't care, mom Lady Elspeth and dad Lord Kinloch are disappointed. Charlie is blasé about it. Kade knows something is afoot. Being a spy for the crown while touring Europe as a Violinist. Now he has something to solve in hopes to get Charlie to see he is the one for her.
Both families, the Kendrick and Kinloch are nuts but that just adds to the fun. Throw in Richard's absurd courting antics, grandda Angus meddling and constant boasting, not to mention the secret of Sir Leslie. All to give you a rip roaring laugh out loud read. Dysfunctional family fun that just flows and works together you can picture as your own family events.
Kade Kendrick, brother to Nicholas Earl of Arnprior, Victoria, Countess of Arnprior, was Kade’s former governess, now Nick's wife, twin brothers Royal married to Ainsley,
Braden who took up medicine after helping take care of Made as a child married Samantha. Then there is grandda Angus MacDonald, who is a pip!! He takes his heritage seriously, supports what they want and prayers them as if he show be in bedlam. Interfering is his nature along with such plain speaking he will have you wondering what he will be up to next.
Charlotte Elizabeth Stewart, daughter of Lord Henry and Lady Elspeth Kinloch, sister Melissa who is marrying Colin MacMillan, and her brother Johnny. Charlotte goes by "Charlie" except with her mother and sister. She wore kilts,Loves horses, and Loves her obnoxious family.
Richard and Andrew, Campbell boys, tormentors when younger, now Richard wants to court and marry Charlie for political connections and her dowery.
Aden St. George was Chief of Intelligence at the Home Office., Vivien was married to Aden St. George and a half cousin to Kendrick family.
Sir Leslie Morgan, pompusness self-indulgent vermin is what he is being referred to as.
We are gathered to celebrate the wedding Miss Melissa Stewart to Mr Colin MacMillan. For this joyous occasion we have mayhem, bedlam, and a mystery of a "stolen" brooch, the "Clan Iain brooch,” thistle brooch is a family heirloom, always passed down from mother to eldest daughter gifted by Queen Charlotte to the family years ago.
Melissa has a reoccurring case of hysterics, Johnny doesn't care, mom Lady Elspeth and dad Lord Kinloch are disappointed. Charlie is blasé about it. Kade knows something is afoot. Being a spy for the crown while touring Europe as a Violinist. Now he has something to solve in hopes to get Charlie to see he is the one for her.
Both families, the Kendrick and Kinloch are nuts but that just adds to the fun. Throw in Richard's absurd courting antics, grandda Angus meddling and constant boasting, not to mention the secret of Sir Leslie. All to give you a rip roaring laugh out loud read. Dysfunctional family fun that just flows and works together you can picture as your own family events.
August 21, 2023
Kade Kendrick is the quiet, sweet guy of the Clan Kendrick. Having overcome a serious illness in his youth, Kade is now a famous renowned musician who travels Europe giving concerts. Kade also spends some of his time as a spy for the crown because of all his traveling. When Kade is forced to go to the wedding of the family's friends he is none too pleased....that is until he crashes into a blast from his past....Charlotte "Charlie" Stewart....the sweet tomboy who was his friend when he was younger. Now Charlie is all grown up in the all the ways that count! Seems that Charlie still has some of that tomboy left in her too! While the family is getting ready for Charlie's sister's wedding, Kade and Charlie get some spend some quality time together. Kade has to write a new concerto to complete for the King but he is stuck in a rut. Image his surprise when Charlie helps him with his music....she must be the muse he's been looking for!
When Charlie's family decides that she must find someone to marry, all the fun begins. Not only are two different men vying for that privilege, but Kade finds himself wanting to also be in the mix. As Kade and Charlie spend more time together, a slow fire starts to burn. At the same time, danger is lurking just around the corner. As the race continues for Charlie's hand in marriage, a dangerous situation is developing that Kade gets thrown into the middle of. It will take some secretive planning but in the end, everything ends on a happy note and Charlie and Kade find their happy ending.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance between Charlie and Kade. Charlie was still a tomboy at heart but she could be a perfect lady if she chose to. Kade was the best man for Charlie because he loved her for how unconventional she was. Together they were perfect. I sure hope this isn't the last book in this series because I just adore Clan Kendrick....especially Angus!
When Charlie's family decides that she must find someone to marry, all the fun begins. Not only are two different men vying for that privilege, but Kade finds himself wanting to also be in the mix. As Kade and Charlie spend more time together, a slow fire starts to burn. At the same time, danger is lurking just around the corner. As the race continues for Charlie's hand in marriage, a dangerous situation is developing that Kade gets thrown into the middle of. It will take some secretive planning but in the end, everything ends on a happy note and Charlie and Kade find their happy ending.
I really enjoyed this sweet romance between Charlie and Kade. Charlie was still a tomboy at heart but she could be a perfect lady if she chose to. Kade was the best man for Charlie because he loved her for how unconventional she was. Together they were perfect. I sure hope this isn't the last book in this series because I just adore Clan Kendrick....especially Angus!
August 29, 2023
This was a seriously funny book! There were serious moments with all that's going on and the family dynamics had me laughing over and over again! I swear good ole grandpa Angus stole the whole book! Although Kade and Charlie definitely held their own with their wonderful love story. There is intrigue, a missing heirloom broach; a bit of danger, brother Johnny's "accidents"; and many steamy bits that tease you along the way. And of course we have a bad guy or two with Richard Campbell, Charlie's suitor who just wants her dowry, and Sir Leslie Morgan who is trying to swindle money out of Johnny. This is just a delicious story from start to finish!
Charlotte, Charlie Steward met Kade Kendrick when she was 11 and he was 13 at a clan gathering. Little Charlie was every bit a tomboy keeping up with the boy cousins. She discovers Kade in the garden reading and sits down to visit with him. Kade at this point is weak and recovering from being quite sick. He reads a lot and plays his piano and violin. He's very gifted. Charlie is very taken with him.
She meets him again years later when he comes to her sister Melissa's wedding. Charlie is a free spirit and gallops on her horse in a man's kilt and accompanies her Da when he visits his tenants. When she meets Kade once again she remembers him vividly as she had a huge crush on him since childhood. Kade now is a world renowned pianist who did some spy work for the crown on his off time. He's recovering from a stab in the back for his trouble. He comes along with his brother Royal and Ainsley to visit the Stewarts before the wedding. He quickly remembers Charlie. This begins the friendship that becomes more during their visit. I loved watching them dance around each other as the passion between them grew. They are perfect for each other!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Charlotte, Charlie Steward met Kade Kendrick when she was 11 and he was 13 at a clan gathering. Little Charlie was every bit a tomboy keeping up with the boy cousins. She discovers Kade in the garden reading and sits down to visit with him. Kade at this point is weak and recovering from being quite sick. He reads a lot and plays his piano and violin. He's very gifted. Charlie is very taken with him.
She meets him again years later when he comes to her sister Melissa's wedding. Charlie is a free spirit and gallops on her horse in a man's kilt and accompanies her Da when he visits his tenants. When she meets Kade once again she remembers him vividly as she had a huge crush on him since childhood. Kade now is a world renowned pianist who did some spy work for the crown on his off time. He's recovering from a stab in the back for his trouble. He comes along with his brother Royal and Ainsley to visit the Stewarts before the wedding. He quickly remembers Charlie. This begins the friendship that becomes more during their visit. I loved watching them dance around each other as the passion between them grew. They are perfect for each other!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced readers copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 15, 2023
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication date: August 22, 2023
The Highlander’s Kilted Bride is the 6th book in the Clan Kendrick series. This is my first of the series and can be read standalone. These are Highlander romance with a bit of mystery.
Kade Kendrick is the youngest of the Kendrick brothers. Having spent most of his youth quite sickly, he’s become a worldly musician and part time spy for the crown. Although now one of the strongest of the brothers, Kade can’t seem to escape his family’s constant worry for both his health and his future.
After suffering a knife wound while spying for the crown, Kade is sent to his brother’s estate in the highlands where he is roped into playing at a wedding for a close family friend.
When the Kendrick’s arrive at the wedding estate, Kade runs into Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart. A most intriguing and somewhat odd lass that he remembers from his childhood.
As Charlie’s parents attempt to marry her off to the best suitor, she continues to display her odd behaviour in the hopes of discouraging most of the suitors her parents have lined up. She does have eyes for Kade however, but can’t believe a worldly musician and spy would be interested in her.
When a family heirloom goes missing and the prize for finding it is Charlie’s hand in marriage, the race is on to ensure the best suitor wins.
This was a 4 star read for me. A cute highland romance with a small amount of spice. I quite liked the relationship building between Kade and Charlie and was actually a bit disappointed there wasn’t more spice for them!!
#NetGalley #thehighlanderskiltedbride #vanessakelly
Publication date: August 22, 2023
The Highlander’s Kilted Bride is the 6th book in the Clan Kendrick series. This is my first of the series and can be read standalone. These are Highlander romance with a bit of mystery.
Kade Kendrick is the youngest of the Kendrick brothers. Having spent most of his youth quite sickly, he’s become a worldly musician and part time spy for the crown. Although now one of the strongest of the brothers, Kade can’t seem to escape his family’s constant worry for both his health and his future.
After suffering a knife wound while spying for the crown, Kade is sent to his brother’s estate in the highlands where he is roped into playing at a wedding for a close family friend.
When the Kendrick’s arrive at the wedding estate, Kade runs into Charlotte “Charlie” Stewart. A most intriguing and somewhat odd lass that he remembers from his childhood.
As Charlie’s parents attempt to marry her off to the best suitor, she continues to display her odd behaviour in the hopes of discouraging most of the suitors her parents have lined up. She does have eyes for Kade however, but can’t believe a worldly musician and spy would be interested in her.
When a family heirloom goes missing and the prize for finding it is Charlie’s hand in marriage, the race is on to ensure the best suitor wins.
This was a 4 star read for me. A cute highland romance with a small amount of spice. I quite liked the relationship building between Kade and Charlie and was actually a bit disappointed there wasn’t more spice for them!!
#NetGalley #thehighlanderskiltedbride #vanessakelly
October 29, 2023
This one is bittersweet, the story of the last Kendrick brother… I hope it won’t be the last we see of Clan Kendrick! I adore this family and it’s wonderful to see Kade grow into an adult after seeing his journey as a secondary character throughout the series. Not only was he the youngest, he dealt with poor health that had everyone in his family overprotective of him. Now an accomplished musician, who performs all over, is it any wonder that he took a page out of the family book and uses his position to become a spy?
When a mission goes sideways, Kade heads home to recuperate, but ends up getting roped into performing for a family wedding and reunites with Charlie, whom he befriended and influenced when he was younger. Charlie is no shy retiring miss. She loves her Highland home and is perfectly happy with her wild, tomboyish ways, despite how much they vex her mother and sister. She especially has no desire to follow her sister down the matrimonial path with the prospective groom chosen for her. When Kade arrives, she realizes that her girlhood crush hasn’t changed. With a mystery, a ghost, wonderful secondary characters, and meddling family members, these two people may get more help than they need to realize they belong together.
If you are new to Vanessa Kelly’s Kendricks, you won’t be lost, but you will have missed a series full of nuanced and entertaining characters. If this is truly the last, I will miss this family, especially Angus. I hope to see the Kendricks again. THE HIGHLANDER’S KILTED BRIDE is a fun and captivating addition to the series.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of the novel. All opinions are my own and freely given.
#THEHIGHLANDERSKILTEDBRIDE #CLANKENDRICK #VANESSAKELLY #ZEBRA #KENSINGTON
When a mission goes sideways, Kade heads home to recuperate, but ends up getting roped into performing for a family wedding and reunites with Charlie, whom he befriended and influenced when he was younger. Charlie is no shy retiring miss. She loves her Highland home and is perfectly happy with her wild, tomboyish ways, despite how much they vex her mother and sister. She especially has no desire to follow her sister down the matrimonial path with the prospective groom chosen for her. When Kade arrives, she realizes that her girlhood crush hasn’t changed. With a mystery, a ghost, wonderful secondary characters, and meddling family members, these two people may get more help than they need to realize they belong together.
If you are new to Vanessa Kelly’s Kendricks, you won’t be lost, but you will have missed a series full of nuanced and entertaining characters. If this is truly the last, I will miss this family, especially Angus. I hope to see the Kendricks again. THE HIGHLANDER’S KILTED BRIDE is a fun and captivating addition to the series.
Thank you to the publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of the novel. All opinions are my own and freely given.
#THEHIGHLANDERSKILTEDBRIDE #CLANKENDRICK #VANESSAKELLY #ZEBRA #KENSINGTON
July 2, 2024
Charlotte (Charlie) Stewart meets Kade Kendrick when they are mere children, Kade fighting for his health and Charlotte fighting to be free, as the odd child out in her family. In the ensuing years, Charlotte finds herself thinking of Kade quite often. When they see each other again as adults, Kade at first doesn't recognize Charlie, but soon his memories are filled once again with a little blond slip of a girl who defended him from her nasty cousin all those years ago.
Kade, now a well-known musician with one spy endeavor for the crown under his belt, he is very happy to be moving on, writing a piece of music for the king. Charlie is still that odd child out in her family, her sister Melissa being addled with 'the vapors' quite frequently, and her brother Johnny burdened by some bad decisions he has made. When Kade and his family stay for a while longer at the house of Charlie's family, after Melissa's wedding, to help solve the mystery of who stole Charlie's family heirloom brooch, Kade and Charlie grow closer. While Charlie has self-doubts as to whether Kade would want to be with her, and whether she would want to travel the world with Kade in his musical endeavors, Kade has no doubts after a short while, that Charlie is the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. But he must convince her.
Throughout the search for Charlie's brooch where there is more than one man in competition for her hand in marriage, and the mystery is finally solved, there is Kade's grandfather Angus in the mix. Angus was one of my favorite characters in this story. Charlie and Kade's families were lightly sparring with each other most of the story, which made it lighthearted and humorous. A very good read.
Kade, now a well-known musician with one spy endeavor for the crown under his belt, he is very happy to be moving on, writing a piece of music for the king. Charlie is still that odd child out in her family, her sister Melissa being addled with 'the vapors' quite frequently, and her brother Johnny burdened by some bad decisions he has made. When Kade and his family stay for a while longer at the house of Charlie's family, after Melissa's wedding, to help solve the mystery of who stole Charlie's family heirloom brooch, Kade and Charlie grow closer. While Charlie has self-doubts as to whether Kade would want to be with her, and whether she would want to travel the world with Kade in his musical endeavors, Kade has no doubts after a short while, that Charlie is the woman he wants to spend the rest of his life with. But he must convince her.
Throughout the search for Charlie's brooch where there is more than one man in competition for her hand in marriage, and the mystery is finally solved, there is Kade's grandfather Angus in the mix. Angus was one of my favorite characters in this story. Charlie and Kade's families were lightly sparring with each other most of the story, which made it lighthearted and humorous. A very good read.
August 29, 2023
If you enjoy the Outlander Series or want something similar to it and a little more lighthearted then check out Vanessa Kelly’s Clan Kendrick Series.
This is the final book in the Clan Kendrick book series. Charlie (Charlotte) is a beautiful spirited young lady who would rather don a kilt and ride a horse than sit in a dress. With the Clans gathering for her sisters wedding, Charlie’s mother has her all but married off as well. The suitable husband has been picked and arrangements are in motion.
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When Charlie runs into (literally) her childhood friend Kade Kendrick, he’s not the sickly weak child she remembers, but a broad shouldered Highlander. Kade Kendrick is a famous musician now traveling the country. As their friendship renews they quickly find something more is sizzling between them.
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The disappearance of Charlie's family brooch sets off a search that entangles not only Charlie's family but also Kade and his competing suitors. Amidst preparing for a new concerto and engaging in an undercover mission, Kade strives to remain focused amidst the commotion of having the clans gathered and one unconventional woman filling his soul with desire! The book weaves together humor (thanks to the hilarious Grandpa Angus), mystery, and romance, resulting in an entertaining and enjoyable read.
CW: I did come across a scene or two that got a bit open door with the romance. So this was a mostly Sweet slightly spice book, in my opinion.
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Thank you @kensingtonbooks @btc_books @vanessakellyauthor @tlcbooktours for a spot on this tour and the gifted book to read
This is the final book in the Clan Kendrick book series. Charlie (Charlotte) is a beautiful spirited young lady who would rather don a kilt and ride a horse than sit in a dress. With the Clans gathering for her sisters wedding, Charlie’s mother has her all but married off as well. The suitable husband has been picked and arrangements are in motion.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
When Charlie runs into (literally) her childhood friend Kade Kendrick, he’s not the sickly weak child she remembers, but a broad shouldered Highlander. Kade Kendrick is a famous musician now traveling the country. As their friendship renews they quickly find something more is sizzling between them.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
The disappearance of Charlie's family brooch sets off a search that entangles not only Charlie's family but also Kade and his competing suitors. Amidst preparing for a new concerto and engaging in an undercover mission, Kade strives to remain focused amidst the commotion of having the clans gathered and one unconventional woman filling his soul with desire! The book weaves together humor (thanks to the hilarious Grandpa Angus), mystery, and romance, resulting in an entertaining and enjoyable read.
CW: I did come across a scene or two that got a bit open door with the romance. So this was a mostly Sweet slightly spice book, in my opinion.
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Thank you @kensingtonbooks @btc_books @vanessakellyauthor @tlcbooktours for a spot on this tour and the gifted book to read
April 20, 2023
I love the Kendricks, and Kade, the once sickly little boy is now a healthy, handsome, brawny, talented famous musician. He is home from touring, after a slight knife attack from a pretty spy he thought that could seduce secrets out of, oh well, at least it happened in Paris, maybe his large, boisterous, over - protective family would never find out? Right, his family home might be in Scotland, but his large family had friends everywhere, including the Home Office, now he is on his way to the Highlands to a wedding of someone in his Grandfather's extended family, he thought he was to be a guest, not the bride's dream musician! Here he was, beautiful setting, the Highlands, a beautiful loch, with one of his brothers, his Sassenach sister - in - law, his precocious niece, and his expressive grandfather who could start the next Culloden quicker than you can say Robbie Burns! The idea was for him to finish a concerto, he was to perform before the King, and his muse was as quiet as the local graveyard, he needed rest of so said his family. They were almost to their destination when out of the heather, a pure white horse jumps in front of their carriage, and on its back was a slim rider, with the kilt riding up a very shockingly pretty leg, it was a lady, with her gorgeous blond hair blowing free in the wind, Charlotte "Charlie" Stewart had made her entrance, and our lovely adventure in the Highlands begins! I tried to give it a 4.5.
I highly recommend it. Thank you #Netgalley #KensingtonBooks
I highly recommend it. Thank you #Netgalley #KensingtonBooks
August 29, 2023
Kade, the youngest of Kendrickclan was always shown as a sick child needing to be protected by his older brothers.
We met at beginning of series, Kade was piano genius who indulged by his older brothers and their wives.
Surprise Kade grew up to a leading man who took Europe by storm with pianist skills and Kendrick good looks.
Finally coming home after touring Europe, his brother Nick and sister-in-law Victoria learned Kade was injured working for the Crown like his older twin brothers. They weren't sure how handle this changes.
Angus and Kade were invited to clan gathering with the Stewarts. Angus was his friesty old self determined to so everyone Kade's talent and find him a bride.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
Tracking down a curse heirloom Charlie and Kade must work together and learn to trust each other.
Finding the missing treasure Kade realized he found love and happiness with Charlie.
In the end all of Kendrick meet again at family estate. Being this an incredible series who won hearts of readers for years to a close.
We met at beginning of series, Kade was piano genius who indulged by his older brothers and their wives.
Surprise Kade grew up to a leading man who took Europe by storm with pianist skills and Kendrick good looks.
Finally coming home after touring Europe, his brother Nick and sister-in-law Victoria learned Kade was injured working for the Crown like his older twin brothers. They weren't sure how handle this changes.
Angus and Kade were invited to clan gathering with the Stewarts. Angus was his friesty old self determined to so everyone Kade's talent and find him a bride.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
Tracking down a curse heirloom Charlie and Kade must work together and learn to trust each other.
Finding the missing treasure Kade realized he found love and happiness with Charlie.
In the end all of Kendrick meet again at family estate. Being this an incredible series who won hearts of readers for years to a close.
August 29, 2023
Kade, the youngest of Kendrickclan was always shown as a sick child needing to be protected by his older brothers.
We met at beginning of series, Kade was piano genius who indulged by his older brothers and their wives.
Surprise Kade grew up to a leading man who took Europe by storm with pianist skills and Kendrick good looks.
Finally coming home after touring Europe, his brother Nick and sister-in-law Victoria learned Kade was injured working for the Crown like his older twin brothers. They weren't sure how handle this changes.
Angus and Kade were invited to clan gathering with the Stewarts. Angus was his friesty old self determined to so everyone Kade's talent and find him a bride.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
Tracking down a curse heirloom Charlie and Kade must work together and learn to trust each other.
Finding the missing treasure Kade realized he found love and happiness with Charlie.
In the end all of Kendrick meet again at family estate. Being this an incredible series who won hearts of readers for years to a close.
We met at beginning of series, Kade was piano genius who indulged by his older brothers and their wives.
Surprise Kade grew up to a leading man who took Europe by storm with pianist skills and Kendrick good looks.
Finally coming home after touring Europe, his brother Nick and sister-in-law Victoria learned Kade was injured working for the Crown like his older twin brothers. They weren't sure how handle this changes.
Angus and Kade were invited to clan gathering with the Stewarts. Angus was his friesty old self determined to so everyone Kade's talent and find him a bride.
Charlie and Kade have a lovely romance. Once childhood friends, they haven’t seen each other in years. Charlie is still the outspoken and feisty tomboy Kade remembers, but Kade has changed dramatically. No longer a sickly and weak child, Kade is now a strong and talented man and popular musician. He’s also a secret spy. So, when a precious and cursed heirloom goes missing, Kade is the perfect person to find it. But he has to find it quickly because others, who have been promised Charlie’s hand if they find it, are looking for it too.
Tracking down a curse heirloom Charlie and Kade must work together and learn to trust each other.
Finding the missing treasure Kade realized he found love and happiness with Charlie.
In the end all of Kendrick meet again at family estate. Being this an incredible series who won hearts of readers for years to a close.
February 14, 2024
This was a nice, easy Scottish Highlander romance to enjoy. The plot is easy to follow, never gets too complicated or confusing, the characters are lively and entertaining, and I enjoyed the depictions of the Scottish Highlands. As an American teen, I was introduced to the Highlands in literature through George MacDonald and Michael Phillips so it was nice to revisit literature that captured the feeling of both a country and people who are intense, wild, passionate, and free.
My only critiques would be that in an era where women didn’t shave their legs, it was humorous when a male character referred to the “smooth” legs of a female character. There were also a few times where characters (husband/wives) dropped innuendos which honestly, weren’t that subtle and didn’t feel authentic to the time period, but I appreciated seeing so many strong marriages.
The romance in the book does get a bit spicy a few times, but stops just shy of what I would consider an “R” rating and the male MC does reiterate (after almost taking things too far) that he really wants to do things right by the female MC and wants to marry her before things go further. Much appreciated!
I realized this book was 6th in the series and the supporting characters from Clan Kendrick were amusing and enchanting enough that I wouldn’t mind checking out more of the series at some point to get to visit with the family longer.
**I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
My only critiques would be that in an era where women didn’t shave their legs, it was humorous when a male character referred to the “smooth” legs of a female character. There were also a few times where characters (husband/wives) dropped innuendos which honestly, weren’t that subtle and didn’t feel authentic to the time period, but I appreciated seeing so many strong marriages.
The romance in the book does get a bit spicy a few times, but stops just shy of what I would consider an “R” rating and the male MC does reiterate (after almost taking things too far) that he really wants to do things right by the female MC and wants to marry her before things go further. Much appreciated!
I realized this book was 6th in the series and the supporting characters from Clan Kendrick were amusing and enchanting enough that I wouldn’t mind checking out more of the series at some point to get to visit with the family longer.
**I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.**
August 22, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this latest book by one of my favorite authors. Ms Kelly knows her craft in developing a sublime and witty adventure involving those fun loving Kendrick Clan. The characters are fully developed with thoughts and feelings of their own. Even though this is the sixth in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. It's always good to read a continuation of a family and what their lives have changed. Kade Kendrick has changed from the sickly child he was and now is a well known musician. He handsome and totally a hunky guy that is poplar in London's elite. Now he has returned to Scotland to write a concerto for the bridal couple. The family expects it to be a good one if he can find the right place and time to write it.
When he is secluded, he finds himself intrigued by a woman in a kilt, climbing a tree to rescue a kitten that has been stuck. Of course, the long legged girl is the tomboy Charlotte "Charlie" Stewart.
Kade and Charlie have known each other since childhood. Charlie is a feisty and pretty who doesn't put on airs about who she is. Kade is drawn to her but is unaware that she's had a crush on him a long time.
A lost heirloom, a grumbling granddad, and a treasure hunt make this a fantastic read. It's also where two people are destined to fall in love. Kade and Charlie find their happy ever after, after all.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
When he is secluded, he finds himself intrigued by a woman in a kilt, climbing a tree to rescue a kitten that has been stuck. Of course, the long legged girl is the tomboy Charlotte "Charlie" Stewart.
Kade and Charlie have known each other since childhood. Charlie is a feisty and pretty who doesn't put on airs about who she is. Kade is drawn to her but is unaware that she's had a crush on him a long time.
A lost heirloom, a grumbling granddad, and a treasure hunt make this a fantastic read. It's also where two people are destined to fall in love. Kade and Charlie find their happy ever after, after all.
I appreciate Net Galley for this ARC title in which I gave an honest review.
August 31, 2023
I really wanted to love this book. The hero and heroine are appealing; the sex is HAWT; there are ghosts and curses and spycraft and all sorts of fun. This should have been right up my alley. Unfortunately, I had two big issues with it.
First, the middle section drags. Pretty much every chapter contains some variation of this exact encounter:
Hero/heroine's Family member/friend: Wow, s/he really likes you!
H/h: Aw, we're just friends.
H/h's F/f: Seriously, you'd better lock that down.
Angus: [says something wildly inappropriate]
This leads me to Issue #2: I do not like Angus. There; I feel so much better having gotten that off my chest that I'm going to say it louder: I. DO. NOT. LIKE. ANGUS. There's a fine line between Eccentric Free Spirit and Obnoxious Attention Hog with No Filter, and Angus more or less obliterates that line every time he's on the scene. To give just one example, if I were visiting someone and I walked into their house and immediately started insulting their ancestors, I could reasonably expect to be tossed out the front door on my Highlander azz. Why this never happens remains a mystery that will probably never be solved.
Kendrick fans and Angus stans should definitely read and enjoy this book, but I'll be bidding a fond farewell to the clan until they buy Angus a sweet little estate many miles from the ancestral pile and only let him out for special occasions.
First, the middle section drags. Pretty much every chapter contains some variation of this exact encounter:
Hero/heroine's Family member/friend: Wow, s/he really likes you!
H/h: Aw, we're just friends.
H/h's F/f: Seriously, you'd better lock that down.
Angus: [says something wildly inappropriate]
This leads me to Issue #2: I do not like Angus. There; I feel so much better having gotten that off my chest that I'm going to say it louder: I. DO. NOT. LIKE. ANGUS. There's a fine line between Eccentric Free Spirit and Obnoxious Attention Hog with No Filter, and Angus more or less obliterates that line every time he's on the scene. To give just one example, if I were visiting someone and I walked into their house and immediately started insulting their ancestors, I could reasonably expect to be tossed out the front door on my Highlander azz. Why this never happens remains a mystery that will probably never be solved.
Kendrick fans and Angus stans should definitely read and enjoy this book, but I'll be bidding a fond farewell to the clan until they buy Angus a sweet little estate many miles from the ancestral pile and only let him out for special occasions.
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